Wisconsin Black Bear Population and Distribution

Wisconsin currently has a thriving black bear population, but that was not always the case. Prior to 1985, unlimited and increasing harvests caused the bear population to rapidly decline. Following a close of the bear season in 1985, and with the cooperation of major hunting organizations and the passage of authorizing legislation, a new system of bear hunting and harvest control began in 1986. Since then, the bear population in Wisconsin has nearly tripled.

Primary bear range is located in the northern third and central forest areas of the state, but bears are being sited more frequently in counties further south and southwest (see distribution map).

The results of a recent two-year mark-recapture study conducted by UW researchers estimates the bear population in Wisconsin to be between 26,000 and 40,000 bears. WDNR utilized the UW study results in conjunction with other population indices to establish harvest and permit levels for 2009. WDNR is planning to conduct additional mark-recapture studies periodically, which will help improve the population estimate.

Questions for Wildlife Management