Bears are present in the Big Bear region. Understanding which bears live here and how to safely coexist with them is important for human safety and animal welfare.
The Black Bear of Big Bear
The only bear species found in Big Bear is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). While the Big Bear area was historically named for the grizzly bears that once roamed here, those larger bears were hunted to extinction in California by the early 20th century. Black bears were introduced to the San Bernardino National Forest from Yosemite National Park starting in 1933.
American Black Bears are the smallest bear species in North America. Adult males, called boars, weigh between 150 to 400 pounds, though some can exceed 500 pounds. Females, known as sows, range from 100 to 300 pounds.
Despite their name, these bears exhibit a wide range of fur colors, from off-white and cinnamon to various shades of brown and black. Some may even have a pale patch on their chest. They possess a straight facial profile, small eyes, rounded ears, and a short tail.
Black bears are omnivores. Their diet includes roots, nuts, berries, grasses, leaves, tree sap, and insects like grubs and beetles. They also opportunistically consume carrion, fish, small mammals, and bird eggs. These bears are highly food-motivated and can be drawn to human-associated food sources like garbage and pet food.
They thrive in forested environments, finding sustenance and shelter in areas with thick ground cover, berry bushes, and nut-producing trees. They are often seen near water sources such as lakeshores and rivers.
Living Alongside Big Bear’s Bears
Coexisting with bears in Big Bear involves preventative measures to minimize human-bear conflicts. Never intentionally feed wild animals, as this can lead to bears associating humans with food and becoming habituated.
Proper food storage is important; all food, trash, and scented items, including toiletries, should be secured in bear-resistant containers. These specialized containers prevent bears from accessing their contents, helping to keep bears wild and away from human settlements.
Secure household trash in bear-proof bins and clean barbeque grills immediately after use. Pet food should always be stored indoors. The use of bird feeders is discouraged between March and December, as they can attract bears.
Bears are attracted to a wide array of scents, including those from vinyl and citronella. They quickly learn behaviors that lead to food rewards. Removing potential food attractants contributes to the safety of both the community and the bear population.
Bear Encounters: What to Do
Knowing how to react during a bear encounter is important for safety. If you encounter a bear, remain calm. Do not run, as this can trigger a bear’s chase instinct.
Identify yourself by speaking in a calm voice, allowing the bear to recognize you as a human. To appear less like prey, make yourself look as large as possible by waving your arms or grouping together with others.
Slowly back away from the bear, always facing it, but avoid direct eye contact, as this can be perceived as a challenge. If the bear approaches or bluff charges, stand your ground and make loud noises, such as yelling or clapping, to deter it.
If a black bear makes physical contact and attacks, fight back vigorously using any available means, targeting the bear’s face, eyes, and nose. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it can also be a deterrent. Be cautious if cubs are present, and never place yourself between a mother bear and her young.