Black bears (Ursus americanus) are present in Texas, gradually returning to their historical habitats. Their presence signifies a natural recolonization process, not a reintroduction program. These large mammals are a protected species within the state.
Current Bear Populations
The most established black bear populations in Texas are found in the Trans-Pecos region, particularly within Big Bend National Park and surrounding areas such as the Chisos and Guadalupe Mountains, as well as Val Verde and Crockett counties. Researchers estimate approximately 30-40 bears reside within Big Bend National Park, with an unconfirmed estimate of around 75 bears across West Texas. These populations represent a slow but steady expansion from neighboring regions in Mexico and New Mexico.
Texas also experiences the presence of transient black bears in other parts of the state. East Texas, for example, sees individual black bears, including the Louisiana black bear subspecies, wander in from stable populations in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. While sightings have increased across the state, these areas typically do not support resident breeding populations.
Historical Presence and Return
Historically, Texas was home to black bears distributed across a much wider range of the state. The grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) was also historically present in the Trans-Pecos region, though it was extirpated from Texas around the turn of the 20th century. By the mid-1900s, black bear populations in Texas had drastically declined, primarily due to widespread habitat loss, fragmentation, and unregulated hunting practices.
The natural return of black bears to Texas began in the early 1990s, particularly in Big Bend National Park. This recolonization originated from bear populations in northern Mexico. The recovery of black bear populations in adjacent states like Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma has also contributed to the increased presence of bears in East Texas, as individuals disperse into their former ranges. Texas officially recognized the black bear as an endangered species in 1987, later reclassifying it as threatened in 1996 as populations slowly recovered.
Living with Bears
Black bears are generally shy animals and typically avoid human contact; aggressive encounters are rare. It is important for the public to understand how to prevent unwanted interactions and respond appropriately if a bear is sighted.
Preventing encounters largely involves managing potential food sources that might attract bears. It is recommended to secure all food, trash, and pet food, and to use bear-resistant containers when available. For those with deer feeders, positioning them at least eight feet high and four feet from any attachment point can help deter bears. Removing bird feeders and securing compost piles are also effective measures.
If a bear is sighted, remain calm and avoid direct eye contact. Slowly back away while speaking in a calm voice, and under no circumstances should one run, as this can trigger a bear’s chase instinct. Making oneself appear larger by raising arms or a jacket and yelling can help to deter an approaching bear.
If a physical attack occurs, fight back aggressively with any available means rather than playing dead. Feeding bears is illegal and can lead to habituation, creating dangerous situations for both humans and wildlife. Any bear sightings should be reported to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.