Discover Alabama’s and Northwest Georgia’s Growing Black Bear Population

Alabama’s black bears are captivating creatures, and their yearly cycle kicks off in February. This marks the beginning of a crucial period for female bears, or sows, who give birth to their adorable cubs in snug dens.

Black bears are becoming an increasingly integral part of Alabama’s wildlife landscape, with their population increasing. While historically found in the state’s southwest, bears have been migrating into northeast Alabama from northwest Georgia in recent years, bringing a host of myths, tall tales, and misconceptions.

Beth Sewell from JSU Field School invites you to join a captivating discussion on the world of bears to shed light on these fascinating creatures and dispel common myths. Explore whether bears truly hibernate and gain insights into how to coexist with bears in your community.

This FREE educational session is scheduled for March 15, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. (CST) at DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne, Alabama and is open to everyone.

View the social media event announcement below:

Wild About Bears!

Did you know that in Alabama, the yearly cycle for black bears starts in February? This is the time when the female bears, known as sows, give birth to their adorable cubs snug inside their cozy dens. Black bears are native to Alabama and their population is on the rise. Historically found in the southwest area of the state, bears have also been migrating into northeast Alabama from northwest Georgia over recent years. Following in their wake are myths, tall tales, and misconceptions. Join Beth Sewell from JSU Field School to delve deeper into the world of bears, discover if they hibernate or not, and what to do to live with bears in your community.

Date: March 15, 2024

Time: 10:00 a.m. (CST)

Where: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Benefield Interpretive Nature Center next to the Country Store

Fee: Free & open to everyone. Contact Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for any details.