Michigan Has 12,000 Black Bears…Yes, Even Down Here

There are a lot of things that are worth getting up close and personal with in Michigan, and most of them can't bite your face. Fall colors. Lake Michigan sunsets. A perfectly fried perch basket. A black bear? Let's keep that one in the "admire from a distance behind something sturdy" category.

Where Black Bears Live in Michigan

Michigan is home to roughly 12,000 black bears, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). About 10,000 live in the Upper Peninsula, where basically every pine tree could have a neighbor with claws. The entire U.P. is considered high-density bear country, which is a handy bit of information to have before heading off into the woods with an open jar of honey.

Head south into the northern Lower Peninsula, and the numbers drop but don't disappear. Areas like Cadillac, Gaylord, and Traverse City still see steady bear activity.

Further south, including places like Grand Rapids, Lansing, and even Detroit, sightings are rare but not impossible. Bears don't check county lines before wandering.

What To Do If You Encounter a Black Bear in Michigan

Keep in mind that Michigan's black bears weigh between 100 and 400 pounds on average, stand about 3 feet at the shoulder when on all fours, and are about 5 feet tall when standing. However, according to the Michigan United Conservation Clubs, there are some exceptional males in the U.P. that have reached over 500 pounds. If you cross paths with one, don't panic, and definitely don't try to go viral.

• Stay calm, and despite every instinct you may have, don't run
• Make yourself look bigger and speak firmly
• Back away slowly while keeping a close eye on the bear
• Never approach cubs (that's how to meet an extremely motivated parent)

Michigan is absolutely bear country. Just remember: the woods are their house. You're the guest... so maybe don't go in smelling like a snack.