Black Bear

Introduction

CDFW strives to ensure viable black bear (Ursus americanus) populations persist throughout the state where suitable habitat and other environmental conditions allow. Black bears provide many ecosystem benefits and are an important part of California's unique biodiversity. The black bear program was established to coordinate scientific research and population monitoring, to inform big game management, species management, and habitat conservation plans. Learn more!

Conservation Plan Update

CDFW has opened public comment on the April 2024 Draft of the Black Bear Conservation Plan for California(opens in new tab) until June 14, 2024. To provide public comment, choose one of the following options:

Related Information

• Human-Wildlife Conflict Program
• Bear Naked Truth Blog
• Bear Hunting Information
• 1998 Black Bear Management Plan (PDF)(opens in new tab)
• Black Bear Policy in California: Public Safety, Depredation, Conflict, and Animal Welfare (2022) (PDF)(opens in new tab)