Florida does not have grizzly bears. The state is home to a native bear species well-adapted to its unique environment. Grizzly bears’ natural range and habitat preferences do not extend to Florida’s subtropical climate.
Why Florida Lacks Grizzlies
Grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis) are found in large, open wilderness areas like mountain forests and arctic tundra. Historically, their range covered western North America, extending east to the Mississippi River. Florida’s humid subtropical climate and flat landscape are unsuitable for grizzlies. They thrive in cooler, mountainous regions with specific food sources not found in Florida.
Florida’s Native Bear Species
Florida’s native bear is the Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus). These bears have shiny black fur, though some have brown muzzles. About 30% display a white chest patch.
Adult males weigh 250-300 pounds, while females typically range from 130-180 pounds, standing 3-3.5 feet high at the shoulder and measuring 5-6 feet long. Florida black bears are omnivores, mainly eating plants and insects, supplemented by some animal matter. They inhabit various forested communities across Florida, including swamps, flatwoods, and scrublands, often concentrating around public lands like the Ocala National Forest.
How to Tell the Bears Apart
Distinguishing grizzly bears from Florida black bears involves observing several physical features. Grizzly bears have a noticeable shoulder hump, a result of powerful digging muscles, which black bears lack. The highest point on a black bear’s body, when on all fours, is its rump or mid-back.
Grizzly bears often have a concave facial profile, while black bears feature a long, straight profile from forehead to nose tip. Grizzly bears also have smaller, rounded ears and longer, less curved claws (2-4.5 inches) adapted for digging. Black bears, conversely, have larger, pointed ears and shorter, curved claws (less than 2 inches) suited for climbing.
Coexisting with Florida’s Bears
Living safely alongside Florida black bears requires proactive measures to minimize human-bear conflicts. Securing food sources is essential; this includes using bear-resistant trash cans, removing pet food bowls, and taking down bird feeders during active bear seasons. Never intentionally feed bears, as this can lead to them associating humans with food and becoming habituated. If an encounter occurs, remain calm, stand your ground, and speak in a low, assertive voice while slowly backing away. Avoid direct eye contact or running, as these actions can provoke a defensive reaction.