Wisconsin Black Bear Population and Distribution

Wisconsin has a thriving black bear population, which is currently estimated at approximately 13,000 animals. The primary range is in the northern 1/3 of the state, but bears are being sited more frequently in the central and southern counties of Wisconsin as they expand their range (See distribution map below). Although they are doing extremely well now, this was not always the case. Prior to 1985, unlimited and increasing harvests were causing the bear population to rapidly decline. Following a closed bear season in 1985, and with the cooperation of major hunter organizations and the passage of authorizing legislation, a new system of bear hunting and harvest control was initiated with the 1986 season. Since then, the bear population in Wisconsin has almost tripled!

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