Ursus americanus is the black bear’s scientific name; it means “American bear.” Although three species of bears inhabit North America, only the black bear is found in Pennsylvania.
Are there brown bears in Pennsylvania?
Bears are powerfully built animals. ... Most Pennsylvania bears are black, although a few are a cinnamon color. (In other parts of its range, Ursus americanus may be brown , whitish, or bluish-gray, but the majority are black.)
What part of PA has the most bears?
Although they remain most numerous in northern and southwestern Pennsylvania , and the mountainous areas of the rest of the state, bears can be found in nearly every county.
How many bears are in Pennsylvania?
The black bear population across Pennsylvania is estimated at 16,268 by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. That’s a big drop from the estimate of 20,000 last year, and for several years before that.
How long do black bears hibernate in Pennsylvania?
Bears typically den (hibernate) in fall ( late October-early December ) and emerge in spring (March-April). Some bears may not den at all if they continue to find sufficient food. Around homes, bears may scavenge for food in garbage containers and bird feeders and for pet and livestock food left outside.
Do mountain lions live in Pa?
Isolated juvenile males have been found as far east as Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin. These young males are looking to establish a new territory and they do not stay in areas without females. No wild cougars have been found in Pennsylvania since their extirpation in 1871.
Are there wolves in Pennsylvania?
Discover the Speedwell Wolves and learn interesting facts – such as there have been no wild wolves in Pennsylvania for more than a century – at this sanctuary that provides a natural habitat for its residents. ... Watch experienced sanctuary caretakers feed the wolves.
What county in PA has the most black bears?
The most bears were harvested in Lycoming County with 284, followed by Clinton and Tioga counties with 267 each. Other top counties for bear harvests were Huntingdon, 180; Potter, 174; Luzerne, 163; Pike, 161; Bedford, 156; Centre, 146; and Warren, 146.
Do I need bear spray in Pennsylvania?
The spray is effective in chasing off aggressive creatures, but it’s almost never necessary against Pennsylvania’s mostly-docile black bears, according to the state game commission. ... However, bear spray shouldn’t be at the top of anyone’s shopping list, as it isn’t needed , game commission spokesman Travis Lau said.
What months are bears most active?
If you want to give yourself the best chance to see an active bear, September and October are the best months. Bears are most active during this period, preparing for their lengthy hibernation. Some of the most popular activities for bears include snoozing, wandering, and fishing.
How many bears killed Pa 2020?
Pennsylvania hunters killed 3,608 black bears during the 2020 hunting seasons, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission. While the 2020 harvest was about 20 percent lower than the record harvest of 4,653 bears in 2019, it still ranks as the state’s sixth best.
What is the largest black bear killed in PA?
The heaviest bear ever taken in Pennsylvania was an 875-pounder harvested in 2010 in Middle Smithfield Township, Pike County. Since 1992, seven black bears weighing at least 800 pounds have been lawfully harvested in Pennsylvania hunting seasons.
Are black bears overpopulated?
California’s black bear population has increased over the past 25 years. In 1982, the statewide bear population was estimated to be between 10,000 and 15,000. Presently, the statewide black bear population is conservatively estimated to be between 30,000 and 40,000 .
What time of day are black bears most active?
Bear Behavior
Bears are most active during early morning and late evening hours in spring and summer.
How do you get rid of nuisance black bears?
Stand and face the bear directly . Never run away from or approach him. Make yourself look as big as possible by spreading your arms or, better yet, a coat. Make as much noise as possible by yelling, banging pots and pans or using other noisemaking devices.
Where are black bears found in PA?
- The new Wildlife Center at Sinnemahoning State Park is perfect for observing wildlife in all seasons: bears, eagles, otters, and a small elk population.
- From the 16-room green-certified Nature Inn at Bald Eagle State Park , watch bald eagles nesting across the lake.
