Vermont is home to a healthy population of black bears, a species that represents an important part of the state’s wildlife. These adaptable animals navigate the diverse landscapes of the Green Mountain State, often remaining out of sight. Understanding their presence and habits is key to appreciating Vermont’s natural environment.
Current Bear Population
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department estimates the black bear population at approximately 6,300 to 7,600 individuals, based on 2023 data. This figure represents a slight decrease from 2022, a five-year high. The current population is significantly higher than 1970s estimates of 1,500 to 3,500 bears.
Wildlife biologists derive these estimates by examining bears harvested by hunters. Hunters submit a pre-molar tooth, providing data on age structure and population size. These figures are presented as a range because wild animal numbers naturally fluctuate, making an exact count impractical.
What Shapes Bear Numbers
The availability of natural food sources, such as mast crops like acorns and beechnuts, and various berries, significantly influences Vermont’s black bear population. Black bears are omnivores, consuming a wide variety of plants, insects, and occasionally young animals. Beechnuts are a preferred fall food due to their high protein and caloric content.
Habitat quality and quantity, reproductive rates, and cub survival also affect bear numbers. Female bears may synchronize their reproduction with cycles of abundant beechnut production. Wildlife management practices, including regulated hunting, help sustain the population. Vermont’s forest cover has increased to over 80% since the 1850s, positively impacting bear habitat.
Where Vermont’s Bears Live
Black bears are found throughout most of Vermont, except the Lake Champlain Islands. They prefer wild, remote areas where human presence is less frequent. Optimal habitat includes coniferous and hardwood forests, wetlands, and varied terrain, providing dense cover and water access.
Highest concentrations are in the central Green Mountains, from Massachusetts to the Canadian border, and across the northeastern state. Bears use young forest habitats, like power lines or logged sites, for soft mast such as berries. Mature forests provide hard mast and insects. Wetlands offer early spring food sources, supporting widespread distribution.
Coexisting with Vermont’s Bears
Living in Vermont means sharing the landscape with black bears. Conflicts often arise when bears are drawn to human-provided food sources like bird feeders, pet food, household garbage, barbecue grills, and compost. Residents and visitors can implement preventive measures to minimize issues.
To minimize potential issues, residents and visitors can implement several preventive measures around their homes and properties:
Remove bird feeders between mid-March and December.
Store garbage in secure, bear-resistant containers or sturdy structures, and dispose of it regularly.
Feed pets indoors; thoroughly clean and securely store barbecue grills after use.
Use electric fencing (4,000-6,000 volts) for chickens or honeybees.
Manage compost properly with a 3:1 brown to kitchen scraps ratio, frequent turning, and a robust bin.
If You Encounter a Bear
If a bear is encountered, remain calm. Ensure the bear has a clear escape route and slowly back away while speaking calmly. Make yourself appear larger by raising arms. Do not run or climb trees, as bears are proficient at both. Avoid approaching or feeding bears.
If a Bear Behaves Aggressively
If a bear continues to follow or appears aggressive, stand your ground, shout, and make loud noises. In the rare event of a physical attack, especially inside a building or tent, fight back by targeting the bear’s face, eyes, and nose. For bears in a yard, loud noises are useful deterrents.
Reporting Incidents
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department encourages reporting incidents of property damage, bears accessing human food sources, or any situation where a bear causes concern. They provide resources and guidance for safe coexistence.