New York State is home to the American Black Bear, the only bear species found here. Understanding their behavior and how to coexist safely is important as human populations expand into their habitats.
The American Black Bear
Despite their name, not all American Black Bears are black; their fur can range from cinnamon brown to dark chocolate brown, and even sometimes blonde or white, though black is most common in eastern North America. These bears are generally medium-sized, with adult males typically weighing around 300 pounds, while females average about 170 pounds. They possess a keen sense of smell, which is significantly more sensitive than that of a domestic dog, aiding them in finding food.
American Black Bears are omnivores, meaning their diet consists of both plants and animals. Their foraging habits vary with the seasons, including grasses and forbs in spring, berries and fruits in summer, and nuts and seeds in the fall. While they primarily consume plant matter, they will also eat insects, grubs, and carrion. They are generally solitary animals, except for females with cubs or during breeding season, and can be active at any time, though they may become more nocturnal in areas with human activity.
Where Black Bears Live in New York
Black bears are found throughout various regions of New York State, with an estimated population of 6,000 to 8,000 bears. Their primary habitats include the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains. Approximately 50-60% of the state’s black bear population resides in the Adirondack region, and 30-35% in the Catskill region.
Beyond these major ranges, black bears are also established in central and western New York, including the Tug Hill, Hudson Valley, and Southern Tier areas. Their range has expanded over recent decades, leading to increased sightings in semi-rural and even some suburban areas. These adaptable animals prefer forested areas with thick vegetation but can also utilize wetlands and agricultural fields.
Living Safely with Black Bears
Coexisting with black bears requires understanding their behaviors and taking preventative measures to avoid conflicts. Black bears are generally shy and attacks on humans are rare, but they can become bolder if they associate humans with food. A primary strategy for safety is to eliminate potential food attractants around homes and campsites. This includes securing garbage in bear-resistant containers, removing bird feeders, and never leaving pet food outdoors.
When recreating outdoors in bear country, it is important to keep campsites clean and store all food, coolers, and scented items in bear-resistant canisters or secured in a vehicle. If an encounter occurs, it is advised not to run, as bears can outrun humans. Instead, make yourself appear larger by raising your arms, make loud noises like yelling or clapping, and slowly back away. If a bear approaches aggressively or makes contact, fight back. Protecting pets involves keeping them on a leash in bear-active areas and feeding them indoors, as pets can sometimes provoke bears.