Black bears are present throughout Pennsylvania, making them a part of the state’s diverse wildlife. Their presence is widespread, extending across forested and even some suburban areas. Understanding their behaviors is important for residents and visitors, fostering coexistence and promoting safety.
Pennsylvania’s Bear Population
The only bear species found in Pennsylvania is the American black bear, Ursus americanus. These bears inhabit over three-quarters of the state, with sightings confirmed in every county. While broadly distributed, urban centers and agricultural regions, like southeastern Pennsylvania, typically see transient bears due to a lack of suitable forest habitat. Pennsylvania’s expansive mixed hardwood forests provide an ideal environment for black bears, supporting a healthy and growing population.
The black bear population in Pennsylvania has seen a substantial increase over recent decades. From fewer than 5,000 bears in the 1970s, the statewide population is currently estimated to be around 16,000 to 19,000 individuals. This growth is attributed to effective habitat management and monitoring efforts by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Pennsylvania is known for having some of the largest black bears, with adult males often averaging nearly 500 pounds.
Understanding Bear Habits
Black bears are omnivorous, eating both plants and animals. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a wide variety of natural foods such as berries, acorns, hickory nuts, insects, and carrion. Bears also prey on newborn white-tailed deer fawns, though this activity decreases after a few weeks. Their keen sense of smell helps them locate food sources, including those accidentally left by humans.
Bears enter hibernation in late fall, with pregnant females often denning first by mid-November. Hibernation for black bears is more of a prolonged rest than a deep sleep, allowing them to remain aware and capable of defending their dens. They may even emerge and wander nearby on warmer winter days. While most active during dusk and dawn, bears can become nocturnal in areas with human activity to avoid people. They are often drawn to human settlements by accessible food sources, such as bird feeders, garbage, and pet food.
Living Safely with Bears
Minimizing human-bear conflicts involves removing food attractants from around homes and campsites. Secure all garbage and recycling in bear-resistant containers or store them indoors until collection day. Grills should be cleaned thoroughly after each use, removing all food residue and grease. Pet food should be fed indoors, or if fed outside, promptly remove any leftovers. Removing bird feeders, especially during spring and summer when bears are actively foraging, prevents unwanted visits.
If you encounter a black bear, remain calm and make your presence known by talking loudly and waving your arms. Slowly back away while facing the bear, allowing it an escape route and avoiding sudden movements. Do not run or attempt to climb a tree, as bears can outrun and outclimb humans. If a bear approaches aggressively or makes physical contact, fight back using any available objects, targeting the bear’s face, eyes, and nose. Bear attacks are rare, but being prepared helps ensure safety for people and wildlife.