These Are the States Where Black Bears Are Flourishing

Black bears are thriving across parts of the U.S., specifically in North America. This is all thanks to decades of conservation work, habitat protection, and a shift in how we manage the forests and wildlife that surround where black bears live. 

These adaptable animals are booming in places you might expect. From dense forests and abundant food sources to considerate hunting regulations and restoration programs, several states are now home to healthy black bear numbers. Let’s take a closer look at the 15 states where black bears are not just surviving in but they’re thriving.

North Carolina boasts one of the largest black bear populations along the East Coast, with numbers estimated at 20,000. There are dense forests on the Coastal Plain. And the mountains west give bears plenty of space to roam. There are even some counties reporting that they have over 1,000 bears alone.

California shares that they have between 49,000- 71,000 black bears. This state is a stronghold for the species. Conservation rules and massive forested areas, especially around the Sierra Nevada, have helped this population to remain healthy despite wildfires and the expansion of human civilization. 

Maine has upwards of 36,000 black bears. This state has thick woods and low human population density, making it an ideal place for bears to survive in. Public education also plays a big role in limiting hunting and raising awareness for this species to survive. 

The Great Smoky Mountains are a black bear stronghold, especially inside the national park. The National Park Service reports that there are over 1,900 bears in the park alone. Tennessee’s mix of protected land and natural food sources keeps its bear population climbing.

Believe it or not, Florida used to have an abundance of black bears roaming throughout the state. However, there was a decline in their population. And once nearly gone, Florida’s black bear numbers have now rebounded to over 4,000. They’re mostly found in forested zones like the Ocala National Forest. Conservation zones and public awareness have played a big part in their return.

Michigan hosts over 12,000 black bears, with most living in the wild forests of the Upper Peninsula. All of this can be thanks to controlled hunting and conservation lands. This state is happy to boast that the bear population has remained healthy and continues to grow slowly and steadily. 

Finally, we reach the state that has the most black bears! Are you ready for this? There are estimated to be over 100,000 across the entire state! The vast, untouched wilderness provides food and space to roam, with minimal human interference or development pressure.This is truly the best place for black bears to thrive in.

Virginia’s black bear population has increased to over 18,000, up from much lower numbers from decades ago. What has helped this state with its black bear growth is their regrowth, hunting limits, and active bear management programs.

It is true that black bears were once nearly extinct in Arkansas. However, the reintroduction programs in the 1950s really turned things around. Now, over 5,000 bears roam the Ozarks and Ouachita Mountains. This state is a powerful example of long-term wildlife recovery and the effects it can have on wildlife populations. 

Pennsylvania now has one of the largest bear populations in the Northeast, with an estimated 18,000 bears. Smart hunting policies and forest protection have led to a huge rebound since the species nearly disappeared in the early 1900s

Yes, we know that Montana is technically considered grizzly country. But, black bears still hold their own here, especially in forested areas like the Bitterroot Range. The mixed bear habitat offers both species room to thrive thanks to low human density and protected lands.

New Jersey may seem like an odd entry, as there really aren’t that many black bears. But its bear population has exploded in recent decades, with just under 4,000. Most are found in the northwest part of the state. It is estimated that this population number will exceed 4,000 in the next few years.

With around 24,000 black bears, Wisconsin is a bear-friendly state, especially in its northern forests. They do tightly manage seasonal hunting to prevent unnecessary harm on their population. Public education programs have also helped to reduce human-bear conflicts while protecting the natural bear behavior.

There is a healthy black bear population in Colorado, with just under 20,000. Bears here adapt to seasonal food changes and then rely heavily on other sources, such as oak brush, berries, and human awareness efforts to stay wild.

Last, but certainly not least, Georgia holds about 5,000 bears statewide. They can be especially found in the north around the Appalachian Mountains. The forest coverage and focused conservation efforts have helped support their small population.