Black bears inhabit the Everglades, showcasing the diverse wildlife of this unique wetland ecosystem. They are the only bear species naturally found in Florida. Their presence within the Everglades, particularly in areas like Big Cypress National Preserve and parts of Everglades National Park, highlights the region’s capacity to support large mammals.
The Florida Black Bear
The Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus) is the species found in the Everglades. This animal is a distinct subspecies of the American black bear. Florida black bears typically have glossy black fur, a short tail, and often a brownish muzzle. Some individuals may also display a white patch on their chest, referred to as a “blaze.”
Adult males are larger than females, with males commonly weighing between 250 to 450 pounds and standing up to 3.5 feet tall at the shoulder. Females typically weigh between 125 to 250 pounds. Florida black bears are omnivores, with approximately 80% of their diet consisting of plant material such as berries, acorns, and nuts, and about 15% from insects. The remaining portion of their diet comes from animal matter, often carrion or small prey. They possess an excellent sense of smell, capable of detecting odors from over a mile away, and are also adept climbers and swimmers.
Everglades Habitat and Behavior
Florida black bears prefer habitats with dense undergrowth, including forested wetlands, pine and oak scrub, and cypress swamps. Within the Everglades, they are predominantly found in the western regions, such as Big Cypress National Preserve, but have been sighted within Everglades National Park and Water Conservation Area 3. Their adaptability allows them to use various habitats within the Everglades, including mangrove swamps.
These bears are generally solitary animals, except during mating season or when females are raising cubs. While they do not truly hibernate in the Florida climate, they may enter a period of reduced activity called “winter lethargy” between late December and late March. During fall, bears undergo hyperphagia, increasing their food intake to gain weight for leaner winter months, sometimes consuming up to 20,000 calories daily. They are typically shy and elusive, often moving away before humans detect them.
Coexisting with Bears
Preventing Encounters
As human populations expand, Florida black bears increasingly come into contact with developed areas. Securing potential food sources is the most effective way to prevent bear encounters. This includes:
- Keeping garbage in sturdy, bear-resistant containers or secured indoors until collection day.
- Removing outdoor pet food.
- Cleaning grills.
- Picking ripe fruit from trees.
If an Encounter Occurs
If a bear is sighted, remain calm and avoid approaching it. If a close encounter occurs, remain standing upright, back away slowly, and speak in a calm, assertive voice. Making loud noises, such as yelling or banging pots and pans, can help scare a bear away, particularly if it is in a yard. Do not run from a bear, as it can trigger a chase response; black bears can run up to 35 miles per hour.
The Florida black bear population has rebounded from a low of a few hundred in the 1970s to over 4,000 individuals today. This led to their removal from the state’s threatened species list in 2012. Despite this recovery, they remain protected under state law, and it is illegal to harm them. Habitat loss, fragmentation due to development, and vehicle collisions remain challenges for the species. Continued public awareness and responsible practices support the long-term well-being of Florida black bears.