On May 5, in Jerome, Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to a call regarding a bear encounter, where one person and one dog were found dead at the scene.

Officials warned residents that the bear may still be in the area and, therefore, the area should be avoided. This is the second bear attack in Florida in 2025.

While black bear attacks are rare, as the species is typically non-aggressive, there are chances when encounters could escalate.

Where are black bears found in Louisiana?

Now, as they emerge from their dens after hibernation, black bears may be more active during the spring as they search for food after winter.

Black bears are most active during the fall, before hibernation, and are less active overall during the summer due to lower food supply. Additionally, black bears are also most active during early morning and late evening, especially around dawn and dusk.

In Louisiana, black bears are predominantly found in forested wetlands along the Mississippi Valley, particularly within the Tensas and Atchafalaya River Basins, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Black bears have also been sighted in other regions of the state, including the Kisatchie National Forest and in various parishes such as Allen, Natchitoches and East Baton Rouge.

In addition to this, recent reports indicate an increase in black bear activity and sightings, especially in the southeast and central areas of the state.

Black bear population in Louisiana

The black bear, which is Louisiana’s official state mammal, has recently recovered from threatened status and is now considered a viable species.

The black bear population in Louisiana is estimated to be between 1,200 to 1,500, and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries works to monitor the black bear population in certain regions of the state where they are most concentrated.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has also taken efforts to expand and connect black bear habitats through reforestation and translocation.

Now, black bear sightings have increased in some areas, and they are becoming more common in areas where they were once less prevalent.

What should you do if you encounter a black bear?

As black bear activity and sightings increase, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is advocating for public awareness and education regarding bear safety and to prevent attracting bears to residential areas.

When encountering a black bear, the main goal is to remain calm and avoid actions that could provoke or escalate the situation. Therefore, individuals should back away slowly, make noise to alert the bear of your presence and ensure that the bear has an escape route, says the National Park Service.

If you are unable to back away calmly and quietly, and the bear shows aggression, then it’s recommended that you stand your ground, make yourself appear large and use bear spray if necessary. Then, if the bear attacks, you should fight back aggressively, according to the National Parks Service.

Have there been bear attacks in Louisiana?

Black bear attacks on humans are very rare and, while there have been reports of attacks in other states, there is no evidence of attacks occurring in Louisiana, says Louisiana Sportsman.

Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at PTyler@Gannett.com