Yes, black bears are indeed present in Oklahoma. The American black bear (Ursus americanus) is commonly observed in specific regions of the state.
The Presence of Black Bears in Oklahoma
Black bears were historically found across the entire area that is now Oklahoma. However, by the early 1900s, their populations drastically declined due to unregulated hunting, habitat loss, and fragmentation. The species was largely extirpated from the state by 1915.
A natural recolonization process began in the late 1970s and 1980s, as black bears expanded their range from Arkansas into eastern Oklahoma. This expansion followed successful reintroduction programs in Arkansas during the 1950s and 1960s. Oklahoma’s current black bear population is a result of this natural return, not a direct reintroduction effort by the state.
Where Oklahoma’s Bears Live
Black bears in Oklahoma primarily inhabit the eastern parts of the state, particularly within the Ouachita Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma and the Ozark region of east-central Oklahoma. These mountainous and forested areas provide ideal habitat with dense cover and diverse food sources. Counties like Latimer, Le Flore, McCurtain, and Pushmataha in the southeast have established populations, while Adair, Cherokee, and Sequoyah counties in the northeast also support bears.
Although most concentrated in these eastern regions, black bear sightings have been reported progressively farther west, occasionally reaching areas like the Panhandle. They prefer dense forests with a mix of hardwoods and softwoods, finding sustenance in abundant oak trees, which provide acorns. Riparian areas with streams and rivers are also attractive due to the availability of fish, amphibians, and lush vegetation.
Living Alongside Black Bears
Minimize human-bear interactions by securing food and garbage. Bears are opportunistic feeders attracted to easy food sources. Store trash in sealed, bear-resistant containers, keep pet food indoors, and clean barbecue grills after use. Removing bird feeders during summer and early fall also helps prevent attracting bears.
If an encounter occurs, remain calm. Do not run; this might trigger a chase response. Stand your ground, appear as large as possible by spreading your arms or jacket, and make loud noises to deter the bear. Slowly back away without turning your back or blocking its escape route. If a black bear charges or attacks, fight back aggressively.
Managing Bear Populations
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) monitors and manages the state’s black bear populations. Research, often in collaboration with universities, focuses on understanding population growth rates, habitat use, and human-bear interactions. This research informs management strategies.
Current estimates suggest a growing population of approximately 1,300 black bears primarily in the Ouachita Mountains, with a statewide estimate around 2,500 bears. The Ozark population, while smaller, is also increasing. Oklahoma has allowed limited hunting seasons in some southeastern counties since 2009.