Black Bear Attacks in the USA

Black Bear Attacks in the USA Risk Calculator

Black bear attacks in the USA are infrequent but can occur in areas where American black bears (Ursus americanus) inhabit, such as forests, national parks, or near human settlements. This risk calculator estimates your likelihood of experiencing a black bear attack based on location, activity, season, and precautionary measures. By selecting your planned activities and precautions, you can assess your risk and learn how to stay safe in bear country.

Your Inputs

Select the options that best describe your situation to estimate your risk of a black bear attack.

[{"location":"Alaska","location_odds_ratio":"3.0"},{"location":"Appalachian Trail States","location_odds_ratio":"1.4"},{"location":"Other Bear-Populated States","location_odds_ratio":"1.0"},{"location":"Non-Bear Area","location_odds_ratio":"0.0"}]

[{"activity":"Hiking\/Camping with Dog","activity_odds_ratio":"2.0"},{"activity":"Hiking\/Camping without Dog","activity_odds_ratio":"1.0"},{"activity":"Other Outdoor Activities","activity_odds_ratio":"0.8"},{"activity":"Indoor Activities","activity_odds_ratio":"0.2"}]

[{"season":"Summer","season_percentage_attacks":"50","season_months":"3"},{"season":"Other Active Months","season_percentage_attacks":"50","season_months":"6"},{"season":"Hibernation Season","season_percentage_attacks":"0","season_months":"3"}]

[{"precautions":"Bear Spray and Food Storage","precautions_risk_reduction":"0.02"},{"precautions":"Bear Spray Only","precautions_risk_reduction":"0.08"},{"precautions":"Food Storage Only","precautions_risk_reduction":"0.5"},{"precautions":"No Precautions","precautions_risk_reduction":"1.0"}]