Florida black bears, a subspecies of the American black bear, are native to Florida. They are the only bear species found within the state’s diverse ecosystems.
Where Florida’s Black Bears Live
Florida black bears primarily inhabit forested areas and wetlands throughout the state. They are also found in some rural areas. Their range extends across much of peninsular Florida and into the panhandle, often concentrating on large public lands.
Notable areas where significant populations reside include:
- Ocala National Forest
- Big Cypress National Preserve
- Apalachicola National Forest
- Osceola National Forest
Historically, black bears occupied nearly all of mainland Florida, but their range reduced by the mid-1970s. Their current occupied range covers about 49% to 51% of their historic territory, often fragmented.
Florida Black Bear Characteristics and Behavior
Florida black bears are large mammals with shiny black fur, though some may have a white chest patch or tan muzzles. Adult males can weigh between 250 and 450 pounds, while females range from 125 to 300 pounds. They measure between 4 to 6 feet long and stand about 2.5 to 3.5 feet high at the shoulder. They possess an acute sense of smell and good hearing.
These bears are omnivores, with their diet consisting mostly of plants (about 80%), such as berries, acorns, and palmetto hearts. Insects make up about 15% of their diet, and animal matter, primarily carrion, accounts for the remaining 5%. Florida black bears are shy and reclusive, preferring solitary lives except during mating season or when females are raising cubs. While active throughout the year, they do not truly hibernate but may enter a state of torpor during cooler months.
Coexisting with Black Bears
Minimize conflicts by managing attractants around residences. Secure all household garbage in sturdy sheds, garages, or bear-resistant containers, and place trash out on the morning of pickup, not the night before. Removing outdoor pet food, bird feeders, and cleaning outdoor grills thoroughly after each use can prevent bears from being drawn to human-populated areas. Electric fencing can also protect gardens, beehives, and compost piles.
If a bear is encountered, give it space and never approach or feed it. If a bear approaches, make noise by yelling or clapping, and appear as large as possible by waving your arms. Slowly back away, allowing the bear a clear escape route. Do not run away; bears can reach speeds up to 35 miles per hour and may trigger a chase instinct.
Conservation and Population Recovery
The Florida black bear population faced decline in the 1970s, with numbers estimated at 300 to 500 individuals due to unregulated hunting and habitat loss. In response, the species was listed as threatened by the state of Florida in 1974. Conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and public awareness campaigns, have enabled recovery.
By 2012, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) classified the Florida black bear as “Recovered,” removing it from the state’s threatened list. The population is now estimated to be over 4,000 individuals statewide. Despite this recovery, the species remains protected under state law, specifically through the Bear Conservation Rule (68A-4.009). Continued monitoring and management are necessary to address ongoing challenges such as habitat fragmentation caused by development and vehicle collisions, a leading cause of bear mortality.