American Black Bears (Ursus americanus) are present throughout Big Bear Valley and the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest. While bear sightings are uncommon due to their naturally shy nature, residents and visitors share the mountain environment with this native species. Understanding the type of bear that lives here and following simple safety guidelines is important for enjoying the Southern California mountains.
Yes, Bears Live in Big Bear Valley
The bears currently inhabiting the Big Bear Valley and the broader San Bernardino Mountains are American Black Bears, the only bear species found in California today. These animals are a native part of the local ecosystem, though their populations have expanded into areas where they were not seen decades ago. Black Bears are generally reclusive, lack the distinctive shoulder hump of a Grizzly, and can vary in color from black to cinnamon or brown.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) actively monitors the black bear population across the state to ensure the species remains healthy and viable. The state’s Black Bear Conservation and Management Plan aims to balance the conservation of the species with minimizing human-wildlife conflicts in developed areas.
The Origin of the Big Bear Name
The presence of the American Black Bear today often leads to a question about the town’s name, which actually pays homage to a different, now-extinct species. The name “Big Bear” originates from the historical abundance of the California Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctos californicus), the state’s namesake animal. When explorer Benjamin Wilson and his men entered the valley in 1845, they encountered a large population of the Grizzly, leading him to name the area Big Bear Valley.
The California Grizzly Bear was significantly larger than the present-day Black Bear and was known for its aggressive disposition. The species was hunted to extinction in the region by the early 1900s due to conflict with ranchers and settlers, leaving the Black Bear as the sole ursid species in the area. The name remains a historical marker of the valley’s wilderness past and a reminder of the need for species conservation.
Essential Bear Safety for Visitors
Coexistence with the Black Bear population requires securing attractants that draw them into human-occupied areas, as they are opportunistic omnivores with an excellent sense of smell. Food and garbage are the primary attractants, so all scented items, including pet food, bird feeders, and trash, must be secured in bear-resistant containers or stored indoors. Utilizing the bear boxes or dumpsters provided by rental properties and campgrounds is the most effective way to prevent conflicts.
When traveling, never leave food or scented products visible in your car, as Black Bears can quickly learn to break into vehicles. During a trail encounter, the recommended action is to make noise, speak loudly, and make yourself appear as large as possible by waving your arms. You should never play dead during a Black Bear encounter; instead, stand your ground and fight back aggressively if the bear makes physical contact. Keeping pets on a leash and children close is also important, and you should always leave the bear an obvious escape route to encourage it to move away.