There are bears in Maryland, and their population is robust and expanding throughout the state. The species is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus), the only type of bear found in Maryland. Decades of conservation efforts have allowed the population to recover significantly, extending beyond their traditional western range.
Maryland’s Black Bear Population
The American Black Bear is the largest land mammal native to Maryland. Adult males typically weigh between 150 and 450 pounds, and females range from 110 to 250 pounds. This species was once widespread but was nearly eradicated by the mid-20th century due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting. By 1972, the black bear was listed as an endangered species in Maryland, confined to the remote western mountains.
The population began recovery in the 1980s, largely due to forest regrowth and conservation initiatives. While exact population numbers are challenging to determine due to their wide-ranging nature, current estimates suggest 1,500 to 2,000 adult and subadult bears in the state. Black bears are omnivores and opportunistic feeders, with a diet primarily consisting of vegetation, including acorns, berries, and nuts.
Black bears enter a state of winter dormancy, or denning, usually from late November through December. This is not true hibernation; their heart rate and breathing slow, but they can awaken if disturbed. Females give birth to one to five cubs, typically in January, inside the den. They rely on fat reserves built up by consuming up to 20,000 calories per day during the fall.
Where Bears Are Found in Maryland
The core breeding population of black bears is concentrated in the four westernmost counties: Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick. The highest densities are found in the rugged, forested areas of Garrett and western Allegany counties. This region provides the most extensive and suitable habitat.
Population growth and young bears seeking new home ranges have driven a noticeable expansion eastward. Young, solitary males often travel considerable distances, sometimes over 100 miles, leading to increased sightings in central counties like Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, Howard, and Montgomery. This eastward movement is a natural consequence of a thriving population, as pressure for resources and territory pushes them into new areas.
Coexisting Safely with Black Bears
Living in bear country requires proactive steps to minimize human-bear conflicts, which almost always revolve around food. Black bears possess an acute sense of smell and are highly motivated to find easy calories, making human food sources irresistible. The most effective preventative measure is securing all potential attractants, conditioning bears to seek natural foods instead of associating human dwellings with a meal.
Residents should store trash in secure sheds, garages, or bear-resistant containers, placing garbage outside only immediately before collection. Outdoor pet food and bird feeders should be removed, especially between April and November, as birdseed is a high-calorie reward. Grills should be cleaned after every use, and grease traps should be emptied and stored securely.
If you encounter a black bear, it is important to remain calm and never approach the animal, especially a female with cubs. Most bears are naturally fearful of people and will leave the area if given a clear escape route. Make your presence known by talking in a firm voice and slowly waving your arms above your head to appear larger.
Slowly back away from the bear, but never run, as this may trigger a chase response. If the bear attempts to approach or refuses to leave, you can attempt to scare it off by making loud noises, such as yelling or banging pots. For a persistent problem or an emergency, contact the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for guidance.