Have you ever seen bears in Texas? If so, you were probably out west near Big Bend or the Guadalupe Mountains. Recently, however, black bears have been spotted further east in our state, such as in the Hill Country region. Here’s everything you need to know about these bear sightings, including why experts believe they’re occurring and how to protect yourself if you see one up close.

Black bears do live in Texas, but they're rarely seen outside of the Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains areas - until recently, that is.
Flickr Dona Hilkey
Since black bears are now a protected species and cannot be hunted, their numbers are beginning to rise. As a result, the animals are spreading out beyond their usual territory, with sightings being reported as far east as the Texas Hill Country region.
Flickr Lynda Cazort
Drought conditions are also believed to be an important factor, as the bears are on the move in search of food and water.
In 2022, Texas Parks and Wildlife confirmed 154 black bear sightings in Texas. That's nearly a twofold increase from 2021, when just 80 were spotted.
Flickr Jitze Couperus
2020 saw only 20 black bear sightings, so a clear pattern is being established.

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The bears have been spotted primarily in the western part of the Hill Country, with sightings in Kaufman, Menard, and Kimble counties.
Flickr Patrick Connelly
Some of the bears could've also escaped captivity further west.
Flickr Ettore Balocchi
Texas Parks and Wildlife plans on partnering with a university in West Texas to track the movement of black bears.
Now, to answer the question you've probably been asking since you opened this article: what should you do if you see a black bear?
Flickr SEMARNAT
Firstly, it's important to note that black bears are not as dangerous as many people are led to believe - but that doesn't mean they're friendly, either. Don't make eye contact with the bear, and definitely do not start running. Instead, speak in a calm tone of voice and back away slowly. You can also raise your arms above your head and yell to scare the bear away. If you are attacked, fight back and never play dead.

Visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife website for more information about bears in Texas. Don’t forget to grab a canister of bear spray from REI to protect you while you’re out and about in the Lone Star State!

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