Black bears are present in Oklahoma, marking a successful natural recolonization after being nearly absent by the early 20th century. This article details their habitat, population status, and guidance on safe coexistence.
Where Oklahoma’s Black Bears Roam
Black bears primarily reside in eastern and southeastern Oklahoma, with densest populations in the Ouachita Mountains and the Ozark region. These areas provide the dense forest cover, mountainous terrain, and abundant natural food sources like nuts, berries, grasses, and insects that black bears prefer.
While their main range is concentrated in these eastern forested areas, sightings occasionally occur farther west. This expansion is often due to younger male bears dispersing from their natal territories in search of new habitats, leading to unexpected sightings.
Black Bear Population and Management
Oklahoma’s black bear population has grown steadily over recent decades, largely due to successful reintroduction efforts in Arkansas during the 1950s and 1960s, leading to their natural expansion into Oklahoma by the 1990s. Current estimates suggest approximately 3,000 black bears inhabit eastern Oklahoma. A smaller population of about 26 bears has also been identified in the Panhandle, likely originating from New Mexico or Colorado.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) actively manages the state’s black bear population to ensure its health and sustainability. This management includes ongoing research projects that monitor population growth, habitat use, and distribution. Regulated hunting seasons were established in 2009, primarily in southeastern counties, as a tool to manage growing bear numbers. These seasons are carefully controlled with specific quotas and prohibitions, such as not allowing the shooting of cubs or collared bears.
Coexisting with Black Bears
Living or recreating in areas frequented by black bears requires minimizing potential conflicts. Secure attractants that might draw bears to human-occupied spaces. This includes storing trash in sealed, bear-proof containers, cleaning barbecue grills thoroughly, and removing pet food from outdoor areas. Remove bird feeders during summer and fall when natural food sources are abundant.
For those hiking or camping in bear country, several precautions ensure safety. Travel in groups and make noise on trails to alert bears to human presence, encouraging them to move away. Keep dogs leashed to prevent them from agitating a bear. When camping, store food in bear-resistant containers or hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and 5 feet from a tree trunk. Cook away from sleeping areas. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is also recommended.
In the rare event of a black bear encounter, remaining calm is important. Do not run, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, stand your ground, make yourself appear as large as possible by spreading your arms or jacket, and make loud noises like yelling or clapping. Slowly back away from the bear, ensuring it has an escape route. While black bears are generally shy and typically flee, if an attack occurs, aggressively fighting back is recommended, as playing dead is not advised for black bear encounters. Report any bear that poses a threat or exhibits unusual behavior to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.