Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is home to a significant bear population. Understanding their presence and habits helps foster safe interactions within this shared landscape.
Bear Species and Population
The only bear species in Michigan is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). While typically black, their fur can also be brown or cinnamon. Adult females weigh 100-250 pounds, males 150-400 pounds. As of 2022, Michigan’s black bear population exceeds 12,000 statewide, with over 10,000 residing in the Upper Peninsula, underscoring its importance as a bear habitat.
Habitat and Distribution within the UP
The Upper Peninsula’s vast dense forests and extensive wetlands offer an ideal environment for black bears. These habitats provide ample cover, denning sites, and diverse natural food sources. Bears are omnivores, eating plant matter like berries, nuts, and vegetation, along with insects and small mammals. While distributed throughout the UP, continuous forested landscapes with diverse food sources support denser bear populations.
Coexisting with Bears
Living safely alongside black bears requires proactive measures, especially concerning food attractants. Secure garbage in bear-resistant containers or locked structures; bears have an excellent sense of smell and remember food locations. Keep pet food indoors, and remove bird feeders when bears are active (spring through fall). Clean outdoor grills thoroughly after use to eliminate food odors.
If a bear encounter occurs, remain calm. Do not run, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, stand your ground, appear large by raising your arms, and make loud noises to deter the bear. Slowly back away while facing the bear, ensuring it has a clear escape route.
Although black bear attacks are rare, fight back with any available objects if a bear makes physical contact. Report any bear sightings or conflicts to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Seasonal Activity and Behavior
Black bears in Michigan exhibit distinct seasonal activity. They typically den from mid-November to December until late March or early April. While denning, bears are not true hibernators but enter a lethargic sleep with a slight body temperature drop. Females give birth to cubs in the den, usually in January or February.
In spring, bears forage for new vegetation and insects to regain weight. Mating occurs in June and July. Throughout summer, their diet expands to berries and fruits. As autumn approaches, bears enter hyperphagia, intensely feeding on calorie-rich nuts and acorns to build fat reserves. This increased foraging can lead to more frequent human encounters as bears search for food.