Throughout history, humans have been interested in black bears (Ursus americanus). They have been part of our culture in many ways, from Native American ceremonies to teddy bears. Although easily recognized, black bears are not always understood. Misunderstandings about their biology can cause them to be feared and adored at the same time.

Black bears once ranged over much of the North American continent, including the vast forests that covered Kentucky and Tennessee. The loss of the American chestnut tree, habitat destruction, and continual human harassment nearly eliminated them from the State by the 1900s. Occasional sightings in remote sections of the Cumberland Plateau continued throughout the 1970s and increased into the early 1980s.

The recent upsurge in verified sightings on the Cumberland Plateau is primarily due to the natural movement from the surrounding states of West Virginia, Virginia and Kentucky along with an increase in suitable habitat provided by large scale regeneration of forestland.

In addition to bears naturally migrating into the area, some 14 female black bears were released in the Big South Fork area during the winter and summer of 1996 and 1997. The National Park Service continues to work in cooperation with Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, USFS-Daniel Boone National Forest, and USGS-Biological Resources Division-University of Tennessee on this study. The black bears, all captured from Great Smoky Mountains National Park were released to study various re-location techniques as well as to help determine whether the area contained adequate habitat and food sources to support black bear.

The bears were fitted with radio collars and their movements tracked. While not all bears released stayed in the area, some have established home ranges in and around Big South Fork. It has been observed that bears at Big South Fork have been observed by biologists to weigh more than bears in other nearby populations. This is an excellent indicator that bears are doing well in their new home. Biologists estimate that 40 - 50 bears now reside in Big South Fork area.

Follow this link to learn more about black bear biology and behavior.