Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) in Colorado encompasses over 415 square miles of high-altitude wilderness, serving as a sanctuary for numerous wildlife species. Among the park’s large mammals, the black bear is present, though its population is far more discreet than that of the abundant elk or moose. Determining the exact number of individuals is challenging due to the park’s vast size and the secretive nature of the bears.
The Elusive Population Estimate
The precise number of black bears residing in Rocky Mountain National Park remains unknown, which is common when managing wide-ranging, low-density carnivore populations. Scientific estimates suggest the population is quite small, typically ranging between 20 and 35 black bears across the entire park. This low density is among the lowest reported in North America and is attributed to the park’s challenging environment, where high-elevation tundra offers limited natural food sources.
Park biologists employ a variety of research methods to estimate population figures, including minimum number known, occupancy modeling, and catch per unit effort. Researchers capture and radio-collar a small number of bears to track their movements and survival rates. The park also uses remote-triggered cameras to photograph and identify individual bears. These field data, combined with verified visitor reports, allow officials to calculate a reliable population range.
Black Bear Ecology and Habitat
The only species of bear found within Rocky Mountain National Park is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus); the park does not host any Grizzly Bears. Black bears in RMNP are omnivorous, and their diet varies significantly depending on seasonal food availability. Scat analysis reveals that the bears’ diet includes a substantial amount of animal matter, which is higher than in many other bear populations.
Their plant-based diet consists mainly of grasses, along with berries and ants. Black bears follow seasonal food sources, foraging in lower-elevation wetlands during the spring before moving to higher-elevation berry patches in the late summer and fall. They prepare for winter by entering a state of torpor, a deep sleep that lasts typically from November through April.
Studies indicate that female bears in RMNP have shown increased reproductive success and body condition. This is often linked to a greater use of human-associated areas in search of easily accessible food sources. This shift is also reflected in den site selection, which has moved toward lower elevations and closer proximity to human development.
Visitor Safety and Viewing Guidelines
Due to the bears’ low numbers and tendency to avoid humans, the probability of an encounter in RMNP is low. However, visitors must follow specific safety protocols to protect themselves and the wildlife. The National Park Service requires maintaining a minimum distance of 120 feet (36 meters) from any black bear. If a bear is seen, visitors should not run, but instead should make noise, stand tall, and slowly back away.
Proper food storage is the most effective way to prevent negative human-bear interactions. All food, garbage, and scented items must be secured at all times, whether in a vehicle or a campsite. Backcountry campers must store all food and trash inside a certified hard-sided, commercially-made bear-proof container, as hanging food is not permitted. Visitors who observe a bear or have an encounter must report the details to park rangers.