South Carolina is home to a population of black bears. While encounters are becoming more frequent, understanding these animals and their habits can help people and bears coexist safely.
Bear Species and Habitats
The American black bear (Ursus americanus) is the sole bear species residing in South Carolina. These bears are recognizable by their typically black or dark brown fur, often with a lighter brown snout, and a body shape where the rump is higher than the front shoulders. They lack the prominent shoulder hump seen in grizzly bears.
Black bears in South Carolina primarily inhabit two distinct regions: the mountainous areas of the Upstate and the coastal plain. In the mountains, they prefer dense forests with a variety of hardwood trees and shrubs that produce nuts and berries. Along the coast, their habitats include wetlands such as swamps and bays, as well as natural areas bordering human development.
Population Dynamics and Habits
South Carolina’s black bear population is considered stable, with an estimated 900 bears statewide, roughly 600 in the mountains and 300 in the coastal areas. Sightings have increased due to expanding human development encroaching on their natural habitats. Black bears are omnivores, with approximately 80% of their diet consisting of plant matter like berries, nuts, and other vegetation, and the remaining 20% comprising insects and meat.
Adult male black bears typically weigh between 150 and 350 pounds, while females average 100 to 250 pounds. These intelligent animals possess an exceptional sense of smell, keen eyesight, and are skilled climbers and swimmers. Though they are not true hibernators, they enter a state of denning during colder months, which can be shorter in South Carolina’s temperate climate, sometimes leading to year-round activity during mild winters.
Safe Coexistence
Black bears are generally shy and non-aggressive towards people, and there have been no recorded human fatalities or serious attacks attributed to black bears in South Carolina. However, they can become accustomed to human food sources, leading to conflicts. To prevent bears from becoming a nuisance, it is important to secure all potential food attractants.
To prevent conflicts, residents should:
Use bear-proof or tightly secured garbage cans.
Avoid leaving pet food outdoors.
Remove bird feeders when bears are active, especially from late summer through fall.
Thoroughly clean grills and smokers after each use and store them in a secure location.
In camping areas, store all food, trash, and odorous items in bear-proof containers or hang them at least 10 feet above ground.
If an encounter with a bear occurs, remaining calm is important. Reporting bear sightings to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources helps wildlife officials monitor populations and manage interactions.
During an encounter:
Do not run, as this can trigger a chase response.
Stand tall, make yourself appear as large as possible, make noise, and slowly back away without making direct eye contact.
If a bear follows, face it and continue to walk backward slowly.
Bear spray is legal for self-defense in South Carolina and can be an effective deterrent in close encounters.