Have a Problem?

Black bears are an important part of North Carolina's fauna. As human populations increase, it is ultimately human attitudes toward bears that will determine whether bears will continue to exist in the state. Unfortunately, bears are viewed either as dangerous animals or cuddly pets. It is best to avoid these extreme views and instead show a healthy respect for this magnificent forest animal.

Please read how you can take simple, common-sense steps to do your part in ensuring that bears and people can live together. Implementing these steps will avoid attracting bears to your property and prevent conflicts from occurring. Remember, prevention is the best medicine!

Preventing and Resolving Black Bear Conflicts

Bearwise in North Carolina - Learn more about this regional program that shares ways to prevent conflicts with black bears.

What do I do if I see a bear?

• Six At-Home BearWise Basics (PDF)
  • Seis Consejos Básicos de BearWise Para el Hogar (Spanish-PDF)
• Six Outdoor BearWise Basics (PDF)
  • Seis Consejos Básicos de BearWise para Exteriores (Spanish-PDF)
• BearWise Outdoor Safety Tips (PDF)
  • ​BearWise Consejos de Seguridad para Exteriores (Spanish-PDF)
• Bears in Bee Hives
• Bears in Trash: Bear-Resistant Trash Containers  (PDF)
• Coexisting with Black Bears in North Carolina (PDF)
• BearWise Bulletin: Attract Birds, Not Bears (PDF)
• BearWise Bulletin #2: Dogs + Bears = Problems (PDF)

Learn how to become a bear-wise community at Bearwise.org and learn about North Carolina BearWise certification requirements (PDF).

The Wildlife Commission does not typically trap or relocate bears. Find out why.

Have a question? Call the NC Wildlife Helpline at 866-318-2401, Mon. - Fri., 8 am - 5 pm (excluding state holidays) or email wildlifehelpline@ncwildlife.org.