Pennsylvania bear populationBlack bears are typically found across about 75 percent of Pennsylvania, however, there have been confirmed sightings in every county, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
What county in PA has the most black bears?
2021 Bear season stats from the Pennsylvania Game Commission
Bears were taken in 59 of 67 counties and 22 of Pennsylvania’s 23 Wildlife Management Units in the 2021 seasons. Lycoming County gave up 212 bears to rank first among counties for bear harvest.
Where are black bears located in PA?
In Pennsylvania, bears are found in large forested areas statewide. They currently occupy over three-quarters of the state, although sightings have been confirmed in every county.
Where is the bear in Lancaster county?
The bear has been located at North Mary and West Chestnut Street in Lancaster. Game Warden Brian Sheetz from Lebanon County says the little guy is ok.
Are there black bears in Allegheny County?
Black bear hunting harvests from 2020 to 2021 increased in Westmoreland from 32 to 41 bears and in Allegheny County from three to seven, according to the commission’s bear harvest report released this week.
Are there mountain lions in PA?
No wild cougars have been found in Pennsylvania since their extirpation in 1871.
What time of day are black bears most active?
Bear Behavior
Bears are most active during early morning and late evening hours in spring and summer. Mating usually takes place in July. Both female and male bears may have more than one mate during the summer.
Are there bears in Lancaster county PA?
Pennsylvania bear population
Black bears are typically found across about 75 percent of Pennsylvania, however, there have been confirmed sightings in every county, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
How do you know if a black bear is in the area?
Black Bear Sign
- Bear Tracks and Trails. Bears walk on the soles of their soft feet, so they often do not leave distinct tracks unless they walk through soft mud or snow.
- Scat / Droppings.
- Marking Trees and Poles.
- Straddle Trees and Bushes.
- Feeding Sign.
- Summer Beds.
- Winter Dens.
What time of year are bears most active in Pennsylvania?
Bears can be encountered at any time of day or night, but they are most active at dusk and dawn. Black bears gain weight in the late summer and fall in preparation for their winter hibernation. They can feed for up to 20 hours a day during this period, consuming up to 20,000 calories.
What to do if you see a bear in PA?
Alert the bear — If you see a bear, make some noise to alert the bear of your presence, giving it ample time and space to turn and leave. Avoid being caught up in the excitement of seeing a bear and inadvertently letting the bear get too close before surprising it.
Are there mink in Lancaster PA?
Mink are common in this area. But they are mostly nocturnal, secretive, a little bigger than gray squirrels and generally not noticed.
What to do if you come in counter with a bear?
If the bear is stationary, move away slowly and sideways; this allows you to keep an eye on the bear and avoid tripping. Moving sideways is also non-threatening to bears. Do NOT run, but if the bear follows, stop and hold your ground.
Have there been any bear attacks in Pennsylvania?
According to the state Game Commission, no humans have died in attacks by wild Pennsylvania black bears since they started documenting the encounters. Two men are alleged to have been killed in black bear attacks in vaguely recorded incidents in 1883 and 1906.
What to do if you see a black bear in your yard?
Never run away from or approach him. Make yourself look as big as possible by spreading your arms or, better yet, a coat. Make as much noise as possible by yelling, banging pots and pans or using other noisemaking devices. If the bear approaches and you have bear spray, spray the bear as he approaches.
Can you shoot a black bear in PA?
The heaviest bear ever taken in Pennsylvania was an 875-pounder harvested in 2010 in Middle Smithfield Township, Pike County. Since 1992, seven black bears weighing at least 800 pounds have been lawfully harvested in Pennsylvania hunting seasons.
Does PA have wild wolves?
Gray wolves once thrived in the Northeast. But, seen as natural foes of people, they were cleared by trappers and hunters. The last gray in Pennsylvania died in 1892. To see wolves outdoors in Pennsylvania, you have to visit the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania in Lititz.
Are there black panthers in PA?
Theories include the Nittany Lion, Mountain Lion, Puma, Cougar, Bobcat and even an actual black eastern Panther . Today, there are none in existence in this area; the last mountain lions was seen in 1874. The last wild panther known to have walked in the Pennsylvania woods did so in Berks County.
Do black panthers live in PA?
No. Black panthers are indigenous to the jungles asia, africa, and south america. Though there may be some in local zoos. There are mountain lions, cougars, and pumas in Pennsylvania.
What scent keeps bears away?
Bears also dislike the strong scent of pine-based cleaners, but avoid using anything with a fresh, lemony or fruity smell. And never mix bleach and ammonia; the combination produces fumes that can be deadly to both people and bears.
Do dogs scare away bears?
Black bears usually run away when dogs chase them. Even the smallest breeds of dogs have scared black bears away. However, bears learn to ignore dogs that are tied up or in pens.