The Adirondack Park, a six-million-acre expanse of protected wilderness in northern New York, is home to a significant population of American Black Bears. The presence of bears is a natural part of the outdoor experience. Understanding their habits and how to safely navigate their territory is an important part of enjoying the park’s environment. This article provides information for visitors to coexist with the park’s bear population.
Identifying the Adirondack Black Bear
The only bear species found in the Adirondacks is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). These animals are the second-largest mammal in the region, surpassed only by the moose. Adult male black bears typically weigh between 200 and 600 pounds, while females are smaller, ranging from 150 to 250 pounds.
An adult black bear stands between 2 and 3 feet high at the shoulder and measures 4.5 to 5 feet in length. Despite their name, their coat color is not always black; some bears may exhibit cinnamon or brown coloring, and a small white patch on the chest is possible. Identifying features include a narrow, straight profile from the forehead to the nose and large, rounded ears.
Where Bears Live and Roam in the Park
The Adirondack Park contains the highest concentration of the state’s bear population, with an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 bears inhabiting the area. The vast forest cover and diverse food sources provide an ideal habitat for these omnivores. Their diet consists of berries, nuts, insects, and vegetation, which keeps them foraging constantly.
While bears are most numerous in remote sections of the park, they are highly mobile and can be found across all elevations. They frequently venture into peripheral areas, including campgrounds, hiking trails, and developed communities, particularly when natural food sources are scarce. This movement is driven by their opportunistic nature and keen sense of smell, allowing them to easily detect human food.
Preventing Bear Encounters
Minimizing the chance of an encounter involves proactively managing attractants, as bears are motivated by easy access to food. The most effective strategy is the proper storage of all scented items, which teaches bears that human campsites are not a source of nutrition. In the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness Area, overnight campers are required to use a commercially manufactured bear-resistant canister between April 1 and November 30.
Using a bear-resistant canister is highly recommended for all backcountry camping, even outside the required zone. All scented items must be secured inside the canister, including food, garbage, toiletries, cooking utensils, and pet food. The canister should be stored on the ground at least 100 feet away from both the sleeping area and the cooking area, forming a “camping triangle.” Maintaining a clean campsite is also crucial, which includes cleaning up immediately after cooking and never leaving food or backpacks unattended.
What to Do If You See a Bear
If a bear is present, focus on remaining calm and communicating your presence without provoking the animal. Never run, as this may trigger a chase response, and avoid approaching the bear, especially if cubs are nearby. Instead, speak to the bear in a low, calm voice while slowly backing away to increase the distance between you.
To appear less vulnerable, make noise, wave your arms, and hold up a hiking pole or backpack to appear larger. Most black bears will retreat once they identify a human and realize they have been detected. If the bear approaches or acts aggressively, such as huffing or bluff charging, stand your ground, continue to make noise, and prepare to use deterrents like bear spray. If physical contact is made, fight back aggressively with any available object, focusing on the bear’s face and nose.