MICHIGAN - Michigan's black bear population has seen a significant increase in recent years, with the latest data from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimating a total population of over 12,000 bears across the state. The majority of these bears, over 10,000, reside in the vast wilderness of the Upper Peninsula.
Michigan's Black Bear Population on the Rise: Over 12,000 Roaming the Wilderness
This population boom represents a 25% increase since 2012, a testament to the state's successful conservation efforts and favorable habitat conditions. Interestingly, the northern Lower Peninsula has experienced an even steeper increase, with a remarkable 55% growth in bear numbers over the same timeframe.
While the Upper Peninsula remains the primary stronghold for black bears, their distribution in the Lower Peninsula has also expanded significantly, increasing by 74%. This has led to increased sightings and interactions with humans, particularly in areas where bear habitats overlap with human settlements.
