Scientists study black bear population | Urban Wildlife

Biologists in North Alabama are studying the state’s black bear population to better understand their dynamics.

Until recently, black bears were common across Alabama but are now relegated to small areas north of Mobile.

Officials believe there may only be 50 bears in that area, but recently black bears have been seen in northeast Alabama.

Officials believe the bears have been migrating from Georgia and Tennessee to more suitable habitats in DeKalb and Cherokee counties.

Scientists from Auburn University, Jacksonville State, and ADCNR’s Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries are working cooperatively to understand how many bears there are, where they reside, what habitats they use and correlations to bear populations in other states.