4 Fun Facts About Black Bears in the Great Smoky Mountains

February 15, 2024

When you stay at any of our cabins, come admire the area’s crown jewel: the Great Smoky Mountains. The natural scenery is not just beautiful, as it is also home to a variety of animals. Let us tell you more about the most popular resident. Here is a list of 4 fun facts about black bears in the Great Smoky Mountains:

1. They Can Be Seen Just About Anywhere

There are more than 1,500 black bears in the Great Smoky Mountains, and they have a population density of 2 bears per square mile. Their unique characteristics allow them to live at any elevation. The most notable of which is probably their claws. They have 4 sets that are short, curved, and sharp. With that being said, It is no surprise that black bears are great climbers.

2. They Have Stellar Senses

Black bears in the Great Smoky Mountains also have stellar senses. Their hearing abilities are about twice as sensitive as those of humans. Additionally, they can also see at a distance of up to 100 yards. People with 20/20 vision can see clearly for up to about 6 yards. While these senses do play a big role in helping black bears thrive, smell is their strongest sense. They have a large nose. In fact, the area inside is 100 times greater than that of a human nose. It can track scents for up to 20 miles.

3. They Are Big Eaters

Black bears are big animals, so they have to eat a lot. Males can reach a maximum weight of 500 pounds while females weigh up to 300 pounds. Black bears are omnivores which means they eat both meat and plants. Even so, their diet consists mostly of nuts, berries, and some small insects. They have great color vision and can find these small delicacies easily. Black bears will eat the most when preparing for their hibernation period, consuming about 20,000 calories a day during the fall months.

4. Spotting Black Bears

Visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are most likely to see black bears during the warmer months, especially in June and July. They have an abundant population in the low fields of Cades Cove and are most active during the early morning or late evening hours. Black bears tend to be solitary, with the exception of their mating season. While you will definitely hear a black bear’s mighty roar, they will also make other less intense sounds, such as squeaks and woofs. If you do have the opportunity to see a black bear during your visit to the Smokies, maintain a safe distance of no less than 150 feet away. To get the best possible view, bring some binoculars with you! Additionally, refrain from feeling them as well, for human food may be harmful to them!

We hope you enjoyed learning about black bears in the Great Smoky Mountains! Want to learn even more about the area before your visit? Explore our other list of facts about the Great Smoky Mountains that everyone should know!