An analysis of human–black bear conflict in Utah

Abstract

Conflict between black bears (Ursus americanus) and humans has occurred in Utah, but the records are largely incomplete. To document these events, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources initiated a black bear sightings and encounters database in 2003, and we updated it. From 2003–2013, there were 224 recorded events, with 10 attacks, 208 property damages, and 6 vehicle collisions. Most events took place at campsites (40%). The most common season for events was summer (78%). Most conflict occurred at night. The number of events has not increased over the last 10 years, with no significant relationship between the number of events per year and drought. Most events involved single bears, and over half of events occurred when food or garbage was available for the bear.

Keywords

• american black bear
• bear attacks
• database
• human–bear conflict
• ursus americanus
• utah