GAP Analysis Predicted Distribution Map

Black Bear (Ursus americanus)

Species Code: URAM

Legend: = Core Habitat = Marginal Habitat Breeding Range Map The green area shows the predicted habitats for breeding only. The habitats were identified using 1991 satellite imagery, other datasets and experts throughout the state, as part of the Washington Gap Analysis Project. Click to enlarge distribution map Map with historical museum records Other maps & Information: NatureMapping observations throughout the year

Black Bears are found throughout Washington in and along the edges of forested zones except for the islands where they are usually killed or relocated when noticed. They are found in hardwood and coniferous forests, meadows, alder thickets, burns, clear cuts, and subalpine parkland.

Range limits include a buffer zone of a few miles around the most heavily populated areas of Seattle, Tacoma and Olympia. All zones are core except steppe, which is peripheral. Good habitat in core zones were water/wetlands, non-forested, and forested. Good habitats in peripheral steppe zones were water/wetlands, and forested. Their presence within appropriate habitat is partly dependent on human tolerance.

Translated from the Washington Gap Analysis Mammal Volume by Dave Lester
Webpage designed by Dave Lester