Washington State is home to bears. Understanding the specific species present and how to safely interact with them is important for residents and visitors alike.
Bear Species in Washington
Washington State hosts two species of bears: the American black bear and the grizzly bear. Black bears are widespread and the most commonly encountered bear in the state, with an estimated population of around 20,000 individuals. Black bears can exhibit a range of colors, including black, brown, cinnamon, or blonde.
They typically weigh between 100 and 300 pounds, though large males can exceed 600 pounds. They possess a straight facial profile, a relatively long muzzle, and prominent ears. When on all fours, their rump appears higher than their shoulders.
Grizzly bears, a subspecies of brown bear, are significantly rarer in Washington State and are listed as an endangered species. They are generally larger than black bears, with males typically weighing between 400 and 600 pounds. Distinguishing features include a prominent muscular hump on their shoulders, a “dished-in” or concave facial profile, and shorter, more rounded ears. Their front claws are longer and straighter, adapted for digging, unlike the shorter, curved claws of black bears used for climbing. Their fur color can vary, with the “grizzled” appearance often coming from lighter tips on darker fur.
Where Bears Live
Black bears are widely distributed across Washington State, inhabiting nearly all forested areas, with the exception of the interior Columbia Basin and some islands. Their preferred environments include dense forests, coastal rainforests, montane forests, and dry woodlands. They also frequent areas with abundant food sources like riparian zones and suburban areas, especially when natural food is scarce. Black bears can be found from sea level up to elevations of 10,000 feet.
Grizzly bears are found in very limited and remote regions of Washington. Identifiable populations exist primarily in the extreme northeast around the Selkirk Mountains and within the North Cascades ecosystem. In the Selkirk Mountains, approximately a dozen grizzly bears reside in Washington’s portion of the transboundary ecosystem. The North Cascades ecosystem harbors fewer than 20 grizzly bears, with an ongoing plan to reintroduce them. Historically, grizzly bears occupied most of Washington, but their range has significantly diminished due to human activities.
Coexisting with Bears
Living and recreating in Washington’s bear country requires awareness and specific practices to minimize encounters and ensure safety. Bears are often drawn to human-populated areas by accessible food sources, which can lead to conflicts. Proper food storage is important.
- When camping or hiking, store all food, garbage, and scented items in bear-resistant containers or hung at least 10 feet above the ground and 4 feet from a tree trunk.
- At home, secure garbage cans in a garage or sturdy building until collection day.
- Remove bird feeders between March and November.
- Clean outdoor grills after each use.
- Store pet food indoors.
When encountering a bear, remaining calm is important. Do not run, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, make yourself appear as large as possible by standing tall and waving your arms, and speak in a low, calm voice to identify yourself as human. If with others, group together. Slowly back away without making direct eye contact, which can be perceived as a challenge.
Carrying bear spray provides an additional layer of safety; deploy it if a bear approaches within 20-30 feet, aiming for its face. In the rare event of a physical attack, fighting back aggressively, particularly targeting the bear’s face, is advised.