Kansas does not have an established, breeding bear population. However, transient black bears occasionally wander into the state. These rare sightings have increased since 2000, typically involving young males dispersing from established populations in neighboring states. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) monitors these occurrences.
Historical and Current Presence
Black bears were once common across eastern Kansas, inhabiting forested and riparian areas. By the 1880s, they were extirpated, or locally extinct, from the state due to human expansion and hunting pressures. This historical presence confirms Kansas was part of their native range before European colonization significantly altered the landscape and wildlife.
Kansas currently lacks a resident black bear population, with no evidence of breeding within the state. Observed bears are typically young, dispersing American black bears, usually males, traveling from established populations in Missouri, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Arkansas. Most confirmed sightings occur between May and July, aligning with the period when young bears disperse.
While transient bears enter Kansas, they generally move back into states with more suitable habitat. Missouri has an estimated black bear population of 540 to 840 individuals, and Oklahoma’s population is roughly 2,000, primarily in the southeastern part of the state. The presence of dispersing bears in Kansas reflects the species’ natural range expansion from nearby areas.
Identifying Bears in Kansas
The American black bear (Ursus americanus) is the only bear species likely encountered in Kansas. Despite their name, their fur can range from black to dark brown, cinnamon, or yellowish-brown, sometimes with a white chest blaze. They are North America’s smallest bear species, typically measuring 1.2 to 2 meters (4 to 6.5 feet) long and standing 0.7 to 1 meter (2.3 to 3.3 feet) at the shoulder.
Males are generally larger than females, with adult males averaging 60 to 140 kilograms (132 to 309 pounds), though some can exceed 270 kilograms (600 pounds). Black bears have a straight facial profile, small, rounded ears, and lack the prominent shoulder hump of grizzly bears. Their short, dark, non-retractable claws aid their climbing abilities. As omnivores, their diet includes plants, berries, nuts, insects, and occasionally small mammals or carrion, often attracting them to human food sources like trash or pet food.
What to Do If You See a Bear
While encountering a bear in Kansas is rare, knowing how to react ensures safety for both humans and the animal. If you see a black bear, remain calm and avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, stand your ground, appear as large as possible by spreading your arms or coat, and make noise by yelling firmly. Slowly back away, maintaining eye contact, and ensure the bear has a clear escape route.
Never approach a bear, especially cubs, as the mother will likely be nearby and protective. If a bear approaches, act boldly by yelling and throwing objects; be prepared to use bear spray if available. In the rare event of a physical attack, fight back aggressively; do not play dead. To prevent attracting bears, secure all food sources, including trash cans, pet food, and bird feeders. Report any bear sightings to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) to help monitor bear movements.