Florida is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bears. However, only one native bear species, the Florida black bear, inhabits the state.
The Florida Black Bear
The Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus) is the sole bear species native to the state. These large mammals typically have glossy black fur, often with a brownish muzzle and sometimes a white chest patch. Adult males generally weigh between 250 and 450 pounds, while females range from 125 to 250 pounds. They average 4 to 6 feet in length and 2.5 to 3.5 feet at the shoulder.
Florida black bears are generally shy and reclusive, preferring solitary lives except when females are with their cubs or during mating season. They possess an acute sense of smell, capable of detecting odors from over a mile away, and have good eyesight. While omnivores, their diet primarily consists of plants, including berries, acorns, fruits, and nuts. Insects and animal matter, often scavenged carrion or small animals, make up the rest. Unlike bears in colder climates, Florida black bears do not undergo true hibernation but rather enter a state of reduced activity called winter lethargy.
Florida Black Bear Habitat
Florida black bears inhabit a range of natural environments across the state. Their preferred habitats include forested areas, sand-pine scrub, oak scrub, upland hardwood forests, forested wetlands, swamps, and flatwoods. Historically, these bears ranged throughout most of the Florida mainland and even into the upper Florida Keys. However, due to increased human development, their distribution has been reduced and fragmented, now occupying approximately 45% to 49% of their original territory.
Major populations are found in large, undeveloped woodland tracts and public lands such as Ocala National Forest and Big Cypress National Preserve. The encroachment of human settlements into these traditional bear ranges has led to increased interactions between bears and people, with vehicle collisions becoming a leading cause of bear mortality. The current population of Florida black bears is estimated to be over 4,000 individuals, a significant recovery from past lows.
Living Alongside Florida Black Bears
Coexisting with Florida black bears requires awareness and adherence to safety guidelines, primarily focused on preventing bears from associating humans with food sources. Bears possess an exceptional sense of smell, attracting them to easily accessible food items. To prevent encounters, it is important to secure all garbage in bear-resistant containers, store pet food indoors, and remove bird feeders and any outdoor food attractants. Cleaning barbecue grills after use and keeping them secure also helps deter bears.
If a bear is spotted from a distance, it is best to simply observe and enjoy the wildlife while ensuring you do not move closer. Should an encounter occur at closer range, avoid running or making sudden movements, as this can trigger a chase response; black bears can run up to 35 miles per hour. Instead, remain standing upright, back away slowly, and speak in a calm, assertive voice to let the bear know you are human. Making loud noises, such as shouting or banging pots and pans, can often scare a lingering bear away.
It is also advisable to avoid direct eye contact, as some animals may perceive this as an aggressive gesture. If a bear continues to approach or acts defensively, stand your ground, make yourself appear as large as possible, and be prepared to fight back if an attack occurs. The Florida black bear was designated as a Threatened species in 1974 but was delisted as “Recovered” in 2012 due to conservation efforts; however, it remains protected under state law, and feeding bears is illegal.