Black bear range in Central California. Photo courtesy of California Nature Mapping Program

No.

There are no confirmed sightings or other evidence of black bears (Ursus americanus) in San Benito County. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), their range does not currently extend into San Benito County and there is no plan to reintroduce them at this time. 

CDFW said it “relocates bears only when they are in immediate human conflict and not habituated to human food; most bears in historic or traditional ranges are not moved because they are ecologically functional and part of the state’s conservation plan.”

No current range map, including CDFW, shows the species in the county. 

Wildlife sightings can be reported to CDFW here.

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Sources

Carmel has a BA in Natural Sciences/Biodiversity Stewardship from San Jose State University and an AA in Communications Studies from West Valley Community College and she reports on science and the environment....