The American Black Bear (Ursus americanus) is the only bear species found in Michigan. While the largest concentration resides in the Upper Peninsula, a substantial and growing population is present in the Lower Peninsula (LP). Their presence below the Mackinac Bridge is a common, though regionally specific, occurrence. Understanding their distribution and habits is necessary for residents and visitors to safely enjoy Michigan’s northern wilderness areas.
Presence and Geographic Range
The established population of black bears in the Lower Peninsula is concentrated in the northern third of the region, known as the Northern Lower Peninsula (NLP). This range has expanded significantly in recent years, growing by an estimated 74% between 2011 and 2021. The core area of habitation connects cities like Traverse City, Cadillac, Big Rapids, and Ludington.
While the permanent population remains in the NLP, younger males and transient bears occasionally wander farther south in search of new territory. Isolated sightings have been confirmed in counties much further downstate, sometimes reaching areas near the Ohio and Indiana borders. These southward movements are typically temporary, but they demonstrate the species’ capacity for long-distance travel.
Population Estimates and Preferred Habitat
The statewide black bear population is estimated to be around 12,000 individuals. Of this total, approximately 2,000 bears reside in the Lower Peninsula, a figure that has increased 55% since 2012. This population growth reflects successful management efforts and the availability of suitable habitat in the NLP.
Bears in the NLP thrive in large, unfragmented forested ecosystems that provide extensive cover and diverse food sources. Their preferred habitat includes a mix of upland forests, particularly those with aspen and oak, interspersed with forested wetlands. Conifer-dominated wetlands are frequently selected for denning sites. Bears actively avoid areas of human development, roads, and high population density, which limits their ability to establish permanent residency in the more fragmented southern LP.
Coexisting Safely with Black Bears
The most common source of conflict between bears and humans stems from accessible food attractants. Bears possess an excellent sense of smell and a long memory for food locations. Residents in bear country should secure all household garbage in a locked shed, garage, or a bear-resistant container until collection day. Removing bird feeders, especially those containing high-calorie suet, from spring through fall is necessary, as is keeping pet food indoors.
Camping and Hiking Safety
Campers and hikers must maintain a clean campsite, ensuring food and scented items are never kept inside tents. All food, toiletries, and cooking equipment should be stored in a vehicle trunk or suspended from a tree at least twelve feet off the ground and ten feet away from the nearest trunk or branch. Making noise while hiking, such as talking or singing, is an effective way to alert bears to human presence, allowing them to move away naturally.
Encounter Protocol
If a direct encounter occurs, stand your ground and never run, as this may trigger a predatory chase response. Make yourself appear as large as possible by raising your arms or standing on a log, and speak loudly to the bear, such as by yelling “HEY BEAR!”. Always give the bear a clear, unobstructed path to escape, and only slowly back away when the bear stops its approach. In the rare event a black bear makes physical contact, you must fight back using any means available.