The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) is one of the largest protected bear habitats in the Eastern United States, covering over 520,000 acres of dense, biodiverse forest. This expansive, varied terrain allows the American Black Bear to thrive throughout all elevations of the park. However, the sheer size and ruggedness of the Appalachian mountains make tracking the population a complex and continuous effort for wildlife biologists.
Current Black Bear Population Estimates
The estimated population of American Black Bears within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park generally falls within the range of 1,500 to 2,000 individuals, with biologists often citing a figure of approximately 1,900. This number translates to a high population density, with roughly two bears for every square mile of the park’s total area. This density is a testament to the park’s successful conservation efforts and the abundance of natural resources available to the species. The figure is presented as an estimate because performing an exact, comprehensive count in a mountainous, forested environment is nearly impossible.
How Scientists Determine Bear Numbers
Park researchers rely on advanced, non-invasive methods to generate reliable estimates of the bear population. The primary technique involves DNA hair traps, which are strategically placed throughout the park. These traps consist of barbed wire encircling a scent lure, such as fish oil, that attracts the bears. As a bear steps over the wire, it leaves behind tufts of hair, which are collected by scientists. Each hair sample contains DNA, providing a unique genetic profile that identifies individual bears without the need for physical capture.
Population Modeling
Researchers then use statistical formulas, such as capture-recapture models, to extrapolate the total population size. Radio collars are also fitted to a smaller subset of bears to gather data on movement patterns, survival rates, and reproductive success, which further inform the overall population models.
Unique Characteristics of Smoky Mountain Bears
Black bears in the Great Smoky Mountains exhibit behaviors and physical traits. The species is omnivorous, but the diet is overwhelmingly composed of plant materials, making up about 85% of their food intake. Their foraging is heavily dependent on a successful hard mast crop, which includes high-calorie nuts from oak (acorns) and hickory trees, especially in the fall.
The size of the bears shows a distinct sexual dimorphism, with adult males typically weighing around 250 pounds during the summer months. Adult females are noticeably smaller, generally weighing just over 100 pounds, though both sexes can nearly double their weight by fall in preparation for winter. A unique denning characteristic in the Smokies is the bears’ preference for denning high above the ground in large, standing hollow trees, though they will also use cavities under tree roots or in fallen logs.
Safety Guidelines for Visitors
Given the high density of black bears, visitors must follow specific safety guidelines to ensure both human and animal well-being. It is prohibited to willfully approach a bear within 50 yards, or any distance that alters the bear’s behavior. Proper food storage is mandatory, requiring the use of bear-proof containers for all food and garbage in developed areas and the use of provided food storage cables in the backcountry.
If a bear encounter occurs, visitors should never run, as this may trigger a chase response. The recommended action is to speak calmly, wave arms slowly to appear larger, and slowly back away, increasing the distance without turning your back. Never attempt to feed a bear, as providing human food causes them to lose their natural fear, which ultimately endangers their survival and leads to negative human-bear interactions.