Black bears are occasionally sighted in South Texas, though they do not have an established breeding population in the region. These sightings are primarily due to the expansion of existing populations from other parts of Texas or neighboring areas. Their presence indicates the ongoing natural recolonization of black bears into their historic ranges across the state.
Understanding Bear Presence in Texas
Black bear populations in Texas experienced a significant decline during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting. By the 1950s, they were largely absent from much of the state. However, conservation efforts and natural dispersal from surrounding states and Mexico have led to a gradual recovery and expansion of their range.
Established breeding populations of black bears in Texas are primarily found in the Trans-Pecos region, including Big Bend National Park, Val Verde, and Crockett counties. These populations recolonized from adjacent areas in Mexico and New Mexico. Increasing sightings also occur in East Texas, with bears dispersing from established populations in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.
Individual bears, particularly young males, travel significant distances in search of new territories and resources. This dispersal explains occasional sightings in areas like South Texas, where breeding populations are not yet established. These transient bears explore new habitats rather than indicating a permanent, breeding presence in the immediate area. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) tracks these sightings to understand recolonization rates and manage the species.
Identifying Black Bears and Their Habitat
The American Black Bear (Ursus americanus) is the species found in Texas. While named “black,” their fur color varies from black to cinnamon brown. Adults typically measure 5 to 6 feet long, stand 2 to 3 feet tall at the shoulder, and weigh 90 to over 400 pounds, depending on food availability. They have long, coarse fur and front claws longer than their hind claws, which aids in climbing.
Black bears are omnivores, primarily eating plant material like leaves, fruits, berries, nuts, roots, and tubers. They also consume insects and, less frequently, small mammals or carrion. Their preferred habitats include dense woodlands, forested areas, and riparian zones, which provide cover, food, and water. In West Texas, they are often found in higher elevation mountain ranges with suitable vegetation.
Even in fragmented landscapes, preferred habitats along river corridors or undeveloped lands serve as pathways for bear movement. This allows transient individuals to move into areas like South Texas, even if those areas do not fully support a permanent population. Researchers use models to identify potential travel corridors and understand bear movement throughout the state and across international borders.
Coexisting with Bears
Black bears are generally shy and avoid human interaction. However, their strong sense of smell and opportunistic feeding habits can lead them to human-occupied areas if attractants are present. To prevent conflicts, residents in areas with occasional bear sightings should secure potential food sources. This includes storing garbage in bear-resistant containers, cleaning outdoor grills, and bringing pet food indoors. Bird feeders should also be removed when bears are active.
If a bear is encountered, remain calm. Avoid direct eye contact and never run, as this can trigger a bear’s chase instinct. Instead, slowly back away while speaking in a calm voice. To appear larger and deter the bear, stand your ground, raise your arms, or open a jacket.
Black bears are a protected species in Texas, making it illegal to harm or kill them. If a bear becomes a persistent issue or poses a threat, contact the local Texas Parks and Wildlife Department biologist. Relocating bears is not a long-term solution, as they often return; addressing the attractants causing the issue is more effective.