Yes, bears do live in South Carolina, and their presence represents a modern conservation success story. Once nearly eliminated due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting, the black bear population has rebounded significantly. This recovery is a direct result of effective wildlife management and increased protections put in place over the last half-century.
Black Bears are Native to South Carolina
The only species of bear found in South Carolina is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). These bears are the largest land mammals in the state, with adult males typically weighing between 150 and 350 pounds, while females average 100 to 250 pounds. Although named “black” bears, their fur is almost uniformly black or dark brown, sometimes displaying a lighter brown muzzle.
They are easily distinguished from the Grizzly or Brown bear by the absence of a prominent shoulder hump and their smaller size. Black bears are naturally shy and generally avoid human interaction, often shifting their activity to nighttime hours near human presence. They are excellent climbers and good swimmers, allowing them to thrive in a variety of forested and wetland habitats.
Where Bear Populations Thrive
Black bears in South Carolina are concentrated in two major population centers that are geographically separated. One population resides in the Mountain and Upper Piedmont regions, primarily in the Upstate counties of Oconee, Pickens, and Greenville. These bears are part of the larger Appalachian Mountains population that extends into North Carolina and Georgia.
The second established group is found in the Coastal Plain, often referred to as the Lowcountry population. This group is centered in the northern coastal counties, particularly in and around Georgetown and Horry counties, utilizing the extensive river systems, swamps, and bays. These two population groups rarely intermingle, as the vast central part of the state lacks the dense, continuous habitat they require.
While central counties do not support a resident breeding population, sightings still occur, usually involving young, transient males. These dispersing juvenile males are driven out by dominant adults and travel long distances in search of new habitat. These wandering bears are often the source of unexpected sightings in suburban or agricultural areas.
Living Safely Alongside Bears
As human development continues to expand into traditional bear habitat, minimizing human-bear conflict becomes increasingly important for coexistence. The most common source of conflict involves bears being attracted to readily available food sources around homes and campsites. Securing attractants is the single most effective action residents and visitors can take to prevent issues.
It is important to store all garbage securely in bear-proof containers or to keep it indoors until the morning of collection. Other common attractants, such as outdoor pet food and bird feeders, must also be managed. Pet food should be fed indoors, and bird feeders should be removed entirely when bears are active.
In the backcountry, proper camping etiquette involves using bear canisters or hanging food, trash, and scented items away from campsites. If a bear encounter does occur, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) advises against running, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, stand your ground, make yourself look large, and make loud noises to scare the bear away.