Georgia is home to a robust population of wild bears, representing a significant part of the state’s natural heritage. Understanding which species inhabits the region and where they live is the first step toward safe coexistence. This knowledge is important for residents and visitors alike, as human development increasingly overlaps with the bear’s natural habitat. The presence of bears highlights the importance of responsible outdoor practices across the state.
The American Black Bear: Georgia’s Sole Species
The only bear species found within Georgia is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). While the name suggests a single color, their coats in the Southeast are typically black, though brown muzzles are common. Adult males can weigh over 500 pounds, and females generally reach up to 300 pounds.
The American Black Bear is classified as an omnivore, meaning their diet is highly varied, shifting with seasonal food availability. They forage on plants, berries, roots, insects, nuts, and carrion, using their excellent sense of smell to locate food. Despite their size, they are agile, capable of climbing trees and swimming well, and can reach speeds up to 30 miles per hour.
Black bears in Georgia undergo a lighter sleep called torpor, rather than deep hibernation. They typically enter dens between late November and January, emerging around April or May. This dormancy depends on the local food supply; some bears, particularly males, remain active if human-provided food is available year-round. Pregnant females must den to give birth to cubs in late January or February.
Geographic Distribution and Population Status
Black bears are not evenly spread across Georgia; their population is concentrated in three distinct geographical regions. The largest and most continuous population is found in the mountainous North Georgia region, where approximately 4,000 bears reside across the Southern Appalachian ecosystem. This area offers extensive forested habitat and connects to populations in neighboring states.
A smaller, isolated population is located in Central Georgia, primarily associated with the Ocmulgee River drainage system. This group is estimated at around 300 individuals and is separated from the other populations by nearly 100 miles. The isolation poses unique management challenges, including genetic concerns, requiring oversight from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
The third population center is in the South Georgia Coastal Plain, focused on the vast Okefenokee Swamp and surrounding areas. This group is estimated to number around 800 bears and shares a range with northern Florida populations. The current statewide population is estimated to be between 4,100 and 5,100 bears.
Strategies for Safe Human-Bear Coexistence
Living near bear habitat requires proactive steps to minimize conflict. The most effective way to keep bears wild and away from human areas is to eliminate sources of easy food. Bears are intelligent and quickly become dependent on human-provided attractants, which often leads to the bear’s demise.
Securing garbage is paramount. Residents should use bear-resistant containers or store trash securely inside a garage or shed until the morning of pickup. Other common attractants, such as bird feeders, should be removed during the spring and summer months when bears are active. Pet food should never be left outside, and outdoor grills must be cleaned thoroughly after use to remove all food odors.
Campers and backpackers must adhere to strict food storage protocols when in bear country. Items that must be secured include:
- All food
- Trash
- Cooking gear
- Scented toiletries
These items must be secured in a locked vehicle or an approved bear-resistant container. If a container is unavailable, items must be suspended at least 10 feet off the ground and 10 feet away from the tree trunk. Making noise while hiking, such as talking or singing, alerts bears to human presence, allowing them to move away and avoid an encounter.
If a bear is encountered, remaining calm and not running is the proper protocol, as running may trigger a chase response. Slowly backing away while speaking in a calm voice is recommended to give the bear space. The Georgia DNR promotes these practices through the BearWise program, emphasizing that modifying human behavior is the foundation of safe coexistence.