Bears

The Florida Black Bear (Ursus americanus floridanus) can range in weight from 150 to 600 pounds and occurs throughout Florida. The greatest concentrations of bears occur in and around five areas: Ocala National Forest, Big Cypress National Preserve, Osceola National Forest, Apalachicola National Forest, and Eglin Air Force Base. 

The swamp and upland habitats of Florida Black Bears are also good habitat for honey bees.  The best way to prevent bear raids on apiaries is to surround the bee yard with a well maintained electric fence. Road killed bears are a problem where highways traverse bear habitat.  

You can receive technical assistance for bear problems by contacting the FWC regional office nearest you.

Bear proofing your feeder

Use of Electric Fencing to Exclude Bears
and Prevent Property Damage (.pdf)

Living with bears

Bear management in Florida

Florida Black Bear festival

Habitat for Florida's Bear Campaign (includes a slide show on Florida's bears)

Bears of British Columbia (includes information about animal tracks)