West Virginia’s landscapes are home to a diverse array of wildlife, with the black bear standing out as a prominent inhabitant. As the state animal, the black bear symbolizes the wild beauty of West Virginia, adapting to its varied terrain. Understanding their presence offers insight into the ecological health of the region and species management.
West Virginia’s Current Black Bear Numbers
The black bear population in West Virginia is robust, with current estimates placing their numbers between 12,000 and 14,000 individuals. This figure indicates a significant increase, more than 50 percent, during the 21st century. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WV DNR) monitors these numbers to ensure the health and stability of the bear population across the state.
How Bear Populations are Monitored
The WV DNR employs various scientific methods to track and estimate black bear populations. One approach involves analyzing the first premolar tooth submitted by hunters. These teeth contain rings, similar to tree rings, which allow biologists to determine the bear’s age and reconstruct past population data. This mandatory submission provides demographic information for management decisions.
The WV DNR also uses radio telemetry, including GPS collars, to monitor bears. These collars have been used since 1972, providing insights into bear movements, survival rates, and reproductive success. Den visits are also conducted for collared females to assess cub survival and reproductive health. Harvest data from hunting seasons also serves as a tool for managing and understanding population trends.
Historical Trends and Bear Habitats
Historically, black bears were widespread throughout West Virginia’s hardwood forests, though their numbers significantly declined by the early 1970s. At that time, biologists estimated only about 500 black bears remained, primarily confined to about 10 eastern mountain counties. Due to conservation efforts and forest regeneration, the population has made a strong comeback. The black bear population is now considered statewide, with bears observed in most of the 55 counties.
The highest concentrations of black bears are found in a crescent of counties from Tucker through Greenbrier and Monroe, extending westward across Kanawha and Boone counties. These areas offer extensive forests and abundant natural resources, providing ideal habitat. While once thought to require vast wilderness, black bears have shown adaptability, thriving even near human populations in low-density housing areas where wooded tracts offer cover and food sources.
Coexisting with West Virginia’s Bears
As the black bear population has expanded, so has the potential for human-bear interactions. The WV DNR emphasizes prevention is important to avoiding conflicts. Securing food and garbage is essential, as bears are attracted to human-related food sources like trash, birdseed, and pet food. Intentionally feeding bears is illegal and teaches them to associate humans with food, leading to habituation that can be detrimental to the bear.
If an encounter with a black bear occurs, it is important to remain calm and avoid approaching the animal. Running away is not advised, as it can trigger a chase instinct. Instead, slowly back away, make yourself known by waving your arms and shouting “Hey bear,” and allow the bear a clear escape route. The WV DNR also manages the bear population through regulated hunting seasons, which helps balance bear numbers with human tolerance levels and minimize potential conflicts.