The Bear Facts - Tips on the Florida Black Bear Living in Central Florida

Believe it or not, it's not just Mickey Mouse that lives here. We do have an occasional run in with our furry friends - da bears! The greatest concentration of the Florida black bears occur in about five general areas around Florida: Ocala National Forest, Big Cypress National Preserve, Osceola National Forest, Apalachicola National Forest and Eglin Air Force Base.

We do get sightings even in the Greater Orlando area because of all the growth that has developed over the years, the bear population has been steadily encroached upon. Rapid development has eliminated bears from about 83 percent of their former range. And as a result, bears and humans are encountering each other more than ever.

Now, it can be a rewarding and a unique experience to see a bear. However, you must still remember that they are a wild animal. Typical Florida bears are black with a brown muzzle and may have a white chest marking. Adults weigh about 150 to 400 lbs. When a black bear has access to garbage cans, pet food, bird seed, etc. they learn quickly to connect with humans. Once they do this, they lose the fear of people and become a nuisance.

Even tourists who rent vacation homes in areas near forests need to be aware of what to do if you encounter a bear. Of course, the one place you should call is the Fish and Wildlife Service so they are aware of the problem. However, safety should always be first.

Tips if you Encounter a Bear

Enjoy from a distance - most bears will wander at night or a quiet time to forage for food and normally will leave in the same way if they are given the chance to do so.

Do not chase the bear or allow a pet to do so. Just make a lot of noise by clapping, shouting, whistle, etc.
Tips on not Attracting Bears if you Live in a Bear Area

If you are camping, clean up your campsite and eliminate food odors so not to attract bears

If you live in an area that has been known for bears to be wandering, secure any bird or squirrel feeders that contain corn, grain, or suet blocks.

Store your barbeque grill in the garage

Personally, living here in Florida for nearly 23 years, I have never seen a bear. Nevertheless, that doesn't mean they can't be near my area of Orlando. Just recently, a bear was discovered in an urban suburb of Orlando, called College Park. The more growth we have, the more chances of encountering dangerous wildlife.

Anything that attracts dogs, cats, raccoons will also attract bears. The Florida black bear is considered the tamest of all the bears. However, it is still a wild animal. Encounters of the black bear have increased from 10 in 1980 to 1100 in the year 2000. So, just make sure you don't have a close encounter yourself.

Source: Wildlife Foundation of Florida; Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission