Wisconsin is home to just one bear species, the North American black bear (Ursus americanus). While this bear has always been native to the state, both its population size and range have significantly increased over the past three decades.
How Many Bears Are in Wisconsin?
North American black bears can have between 1-6 cubs per litter, with 2-3 most common.
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According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the state’s current bear population is estimated at a little over 24,000. However, it was only about 9,000 bears back in 1989. This is a more than 270% increase!
Where Do Bears Live in Wisconsin?
The state’s black bears overwinter in their large dens, with pregnant females giving birth in January.
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In conjunction with this growing population, bears have also been expanding their range across the state. The DNR notes that historically, black bears primarily occupied just the northern third of the state. While this remains their stronghold, they have been steadily moving southward and are becoming increasingly common across the southern two-thirds as well. While bear sightings were once rare in these areas, they are now reported in all but four counties in the extreme southeastern corner of the state.
Furthermore, while bears traditionally prefer large areas of forested habitat, they can be attracted to the food available in human settlements as well. As both bear and human populations have increased across the state, more and more residents outside traditional “bear country” are reporting seeing bears, even in suburban areas. Unsurprisingly, human-bear conflicts are also on the rise.
Wisconsin Black Bear Management
Bears and people are increasingly coming into contact with one another in Wisconsin.
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Wisconsin has traditionally managed its bear population through regulated hunting. The DNR reports a steady increase in the number of hunting permits issued in response to the growing bear population. The state also drafted a new 10-year management plan in 2019. The Wisconsin Black Bear Management Plan 2019–2029 “seeks to fully evaluate and address contemporary issues related to black bears and their management in the state” and “strives to both ensure a healthy and sustainable black bear population and support the use and enjoyment of the black bear resource by all Wisconsin residents.”
Conclusion
The North American black bear is the only bear species native to Wisconsin. Their numbers have experienced dramatic growth in recent decades, with the current statewide population estimated at over 24,000. Furthermore, while these bears traditionally occupied just the northern third of Wisconsin, they have been steadily pushing their range southward and can now be found across most of the state. If you are in Wisconsin and spot a bear near you, you can report your observation to the DNR!
