North Carolina is home to black bears, the sole bear species found in the state and throughout the eastern United States. They are an integral part of the state’s diverse ecosystems, from its eastern swamps to its western mountains. These adaptable animals have re-established themselves across much of the landscape.
North Carolina’s Bear Population
North Carolina’s bears are American Black Bears (Ursus americanus). While typically black with a brown muzzle, they can display a white chest patch. Their senses of smell and hearing are highly developed, compensating for less acute eyesight.
Adult male black bears weigh between 130 and 660 pounds, while females range from 90 to 175 pounds. Coastal plain bears in North Carolina can be larger, with some males exceeding 500 pounds. Bears are omnivores, consuming a varied diet of plants and animals, including acorns, berries, nuts, insects, and agricultural crops.
Where Bears Live in North Carolina
Black bears are widely distributed across North Carolina, inhabiting approximately 60% of the state’s total land area. Their presence is common in the mountainous western regions and the coastal plain. Their range is expanding into the central Piedmont region, where sightings are becoming more frequent.
Bears seek habitats with ample food and cover. In the mountains, they thrive in deciduous and mixed forests with dense undergrowth. Along the coast, they prefer swamps, pocosins, and lowland hardwoods, often utilizing agricultural fields. This allows them to persist even near human development.
Coexisting Safely with Bears
Living in areas with black bears requires understanding their behavior and taking preventative measures to avoid conflicts. Bears are generally shy and prefer to avoid human interaction, but they can become accustomed to human-provided food sources. This habituation can lead bears to approach homes and people, posing risks to both humans and the bears.
Securing food and garbage is important. All household trash should be stored in bear-resistant containers or secured inside a garage or shed until collection. Remove bird feeders when bears are active, as birdseed is a high-calorie attractant. Pet food should never be left outdoors, and outdoor grills should be thoroughly cleaned after each use to eliminate odors.
If a bear encounter occurs, remaining calm and assessing the situation is advisable. Making your presence known by speaking in an assertive voice and waving your arms above your head can help you appear larger and encourage the bear to leave. Slowly backing away and creating distance is recommended, rather than running. Never approach, surround, or corner a bear, as this can provoke a defensive reaction. For property damage or persistent bear activity, contacting the NC Wildlife Helpline or a district wildlife biologist is appropriate.