The American Black Bear (Ursus americanus) is the only bear species found in Georgia. Black bears were nearly eradicated from the state by the 1930s due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting. Sound wildlife management practices have allowed the population to rebound significantly, creating a robust and increasing population. This recovery has led to more frequent sightings and increased public awareness about coexisting with these large mammals.
The Current Bear Population Estimate
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimates the statewide black bear population to be approximately 4,100 to 5,100 individuals. This figure is a scientific estimate derived from various monitoring techniques, necessary due to the animal’s mobility and reclusive nature. Since receiving protected game status in the 1970s, the population has shown a strong, stable, and growing trend. Biologists manage the statewide total as three distinct, non-contiguous populations for focused management. The largest group resides in the North Georgia Mountains (estimated at 3,000 bears), with two smaller, isolated groups found in the central and southeastern parts of the state.
Where Georgia’s Bears Live
The black bear population in Georgia is geographically partitioned into three separate regions. The vast majority of bears live in the North Georgia Mountains, encompassing the Chattahoochee National Forest and surrounding areas. This northern population benefits from extensive forested land, providing ample natural food sources and security cover within the Appalachian foothills.
A smaller, isolated population exists in the Central Georgia/Piedmont region, primarily concentrated around the Ocmulgee River drainage system. These bears are found in forested areas like the Ocmulgee Wildlife Management Area, where their core habitat consists of mixed pine stands and river swamps. This central population is genetically distinct and vulnerable to isolation due to urban sprawl.
The third population is located in Southeast Georgia, centered in and around the Okefenokee Swamp. This southern group is part of the Florida black bear subspecies and is closely tied to the wetland environment of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. The swamp provides a secure refuge, though these bears occasionally range into surrounding coastal plain habitats.
Monitoring and Management of Bear Populations
The Georgia Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) employs a variety of scientific methods to monitor the health and stability of the state’s bear populations. One primary technique involves hair snares, which are barbed wire enclosures set up to collect hair samples when bears rub against them. DNA analysis of the collected hair identifies individual bears, allowing researchers to estimate population size and density without physical capture.
For detailed information on movement and behavior, the WRD uses trapping to safely immobilize bears for physical examination. Once sedated, bears are fitted with ear tags and microchips (PIT tags) for permanent identification. Certain individuals, particularly female bears, also receive GPS tracking collars, which provide data on travel patterns, habitat use, and denning locations.
The WRD also collects long-term data through mandatory harvest reporting during hunting seasons, public reports of conflicts, and bait station surveys. This multi-faceted approach allows biologists to track population trends, assess reproductive success, and monitor non-hunting mortality factors like vehicle collisions. This data collection is fundamental to the Strategic Management Plan for Black Bears in Georgia, ensuring a science-based approach to conservation and conflict mitigation.
Living Safely Alongside Bears
As bear populations expand and human development encroaches on their habitat, minimizing human-bear conflict has become a priority for public safety and bear welfare. The vast majority of conflicts are directly linked to unsecured food sources that attract bears into residential and recreational areas. Homeowners can significantly reduce conflicts by securing all potential attractants.
This means keeping garbage in a secure building or using certified bear-resistant containers. It is advised to remove bird feeders when bears are active, as seeds and suet are high-calorie rewards that draw bears close to homes. Pet food should never be left outdoors, and outdoor grills must be thoroughly cleaned after use and stored in a secure location. By removing these readily available meals, people prevent bears from becoming habituated to human food.
When hiking or camping in bear country, proper etiquette involves preventing a surprise encounter and securing all food. Campers should store food, trash, and scented toiletries in a locked vehicle or suspend them at least 10 feet off the ground and 10 feet away from a tree trunk. If a bear is sighted, never approach it; stay calm and slowly back away while facing the animal. Making noise, waving arms, and speaking firmly can encourage a bear to leave the area, but running should be avoided as it may trigger a chase response.