How likely are you to see a bear in Georgia?

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — The state of Georgia is home to three geographic areas with black bear populations: the North Georgia Mountains, the Ocmulgee River drainage and the Okefenokee Swamp.

Adult black bears are typically around six feet long, about three feet tall at the shoulder and can weigh anywhere from 300 to 500 pounds. Despite their size, they are generally shy, solitary animals that avoid human interaction.

Sometimes nicknamed “garbage bears” because of their proclivity to rummage through trash, black bears in Georgia are considered relatively harmless. No fatal bear attacks have ever been reported in the Peach State’s history, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Encounters also rarely escalate as long as people give bears space, secure their food and garbage, and keep dogs leashed, officials said.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife officials reported that bears were once common all over Georgia, but there was a serious population decline in the 18th century due to habitat loss, unrestricted hunting and deterioration of their environment.

Since then, with the help of wildlife management, black bears have recovered to a population of about 5,100, according to DNR research from 2021.

Sightings remain uncommon for most Georgians, but they have begun increasing as populations slowly grow and habitats continue to overlap with expanding neighborhoods.

While unlikely, if you do spot one, give the bear space, appreciate their rich color and move away slowly.

“Seeing a black bear in its natural habitat is a thrill and a privilege, and not something to be feared,” said Adam Hammond, state bear biologist with the Georgia DNR, in a statement on the agency’s website.