Black bears are indeed present in Alabama, representing a significant part of the state’s wildlife. While once widespread, their populations faced decline but are now showing signs of recovery in specific regions. Understanding their presence and natural behaviors is important for both conservation efforts and public awareness.
Alabama’s Bear Presence
Alabama is home to the American Black Bear. Historically, these bears roamed across most of the state, but their numbers declined by the late 1800s and early 1900s due to hunting and habitat destruction. Despite this historical reduction, black bears were designated as Alabama’s official state mammal in 2006, highlighting their ecological importance.
The black bear population in Alabama is rare and a species of high conservation concern. Recent studies indicate a slow but steady increase in their numbers, with two distinct breeding populations established within the state. These populations represent different subspecies: the Florida black bear in the southern part of the state and the American black bear in the northeast.
Where Black Bears Roam
Black bears in Alabama are found in two distinct regions, each with unique habitat characteristics. The southwestern population is concentrated in counties like Mobile, Washington, and Clarke, extending into the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. These bears inhabit forested swamps and large areas of bottomland hardwood forests, though some studies suggest these bottomland areas are not heavily utilized. This southern population is estimated at 85-160 individuals, with genetic studies indicating they are a distinct group connected to bears in eastern Mississippi.
A separate population exists in northeastern Alabama, in DeKalb, Cherokee, Etowah, Calhoun, and Cleburne counties. These bears have migrated from northwest Georgia and are establishing a presence in mountainous areas like the Talladega National Forest and Lookout Mountain. This northern population, estimated at 30-40 bears, is expanding more rapidly than the southern group, with females having larger litters. Black bears prefer mixed hardwood/pine forests with dense undergrowth, providing food and cover. Male bears roam over 15,000 acres, while females have smaller home ranges of less than 2,600 acres.
Coexisting with Alabama’s Bears
As black bear populations increase in Alabama, understanding how to coexist safely is important. Bears are attracted to human environments by accessible food sources. To prevent attracting bears, secure household trash in bear-proof containers or store it in a secure building until collection. Do not leave pet food outdoors, and clean outdoor grills thoroughly after each use to eliminate odors. Bird feeders also attract bears, so take them down, especially during spring and summer when bears are active.
When encountering a black bear, remain calm. Do not run, as this may trigger a chase response. Stand tall, appear large by waving your arms, and speak in a calm, assertive voice, then slowly back away, ensuring the bear has an escape route. Black bears are shy and avoid humans, but if a bear shows aggression or attacks, fighting back vigorously, targeting the face and snout is recommended. Reporting bear sightings to state wildlife agencies helps monitor their populations and manage human-bear conflicts.