For many in the mountains and throughout the Southeast, black bears are a most valued and fascinating part of mountain landscapes and ecosystems. They are recognized as iconic symbols of the “wild” and, more than any other animal, symbolize wilderness and the great outdoors.

Bears can scavenge like an opossum but in the summer they normally prefer berries, wild fruits, succulent greens and wasp or yellow jacket larvae. They love acorns and a heavy mast production in the fall allows them to fatten more, which also increases their rate of reproduction.

Male bears average 220 pounds and some larger ones top out at well over 300 pounds. Females are smaller, with adults averaging about 125 pounds, but they are tremendously strong, fast, and powerful — especially when agitated. Most are approximately four to seven feet from nose to tail and about two to three feet high at the withers.

Beginning in October and November black bears hibernate for about seven months during which they do not eat, urinate or defecate — their bodies are designed to recycle the nitrogen from their waste back into proteins. They may remain somewhat active especially during milder winters because their body temperature does not drop significantly.

Extinction Pressures

The American black bear once occupied nearly all of the forested regions of North America, but in the U.S. they are now restricted to the forested areas less densely occupied by humans. Black bear habitat is rapidly diminishing as a result of urban sprawl, development and human over-population.

Despite attempts by conservationists to maintain healthy bear populations, the greatest threat to bears is human contact. It is essential, therefore, that people learn about bears and how to co-exist with them so that populations can remain sustainable and people unharmed.

It is not the nature of the black bear to be aggressive toward humans, but they will attempt to defend their young from a perceived threat. Hikers and others in the bear country should be aware of their surroundings and avoid accidently startling a bear. If a bear is encountered, a person should not show aggressive behavior. Experts advise to hold your arms over your head to appear larger and slowly back away, as turning and running could prompt a bear to chase. It’s a good idea to carry bear spray when in bear country.

Bear experts use the term, “a fed bear is a dead bear.” Bird feeders, dog and cat foods, and human food and garbage attract bears. Once bears associate people with food, they become a threat to human safety. If you live near bears, keep these things out of their reach.

Conservation Status

Black bears are classified as a game species and seasonal legal hunting is allowed on private and public game lands. Responsible hunters obey the law and enjoy a time-honored sport. Unfortunately, poaching is on the rise as is trespassing on private property for hunting. Violators give responsible hunters a bad name and jeopardize bear populations. Due to the effectiveness of sound, scientific management of game populations by state conservation departments, however, we have enjoyed a healthy black bear population in the Southern Appalachians.