Potential for population expansion by black bears in Alabama.

Abstract

Human development and lack of habitat can impede spatial population growth for many species. The amount of habitable area available to American black bears has been drastically reduced, especially in the southeastern United States, causing some populations to face possible extirpation. Nonetheless, some Black Bear populations have begun to recover and recolonize portions of historic Black Bear range, despite human-dominated landscapes. The relationship between Black Bear population expansion and human development is especially apparent in Alabama. Our study makes predictions of the potential for population range expansion of black bears in Alabama. We created resource selection models for black bears via a Geographic Information System and location data from GPS-collared black bears. Our models suggested that there are areas of Alabama that could provide opportunities for population growth, allowing bear populations to expand toward their historic distribution. Understanding potential bear population expansion in Alabama could help to inform wildlife managers who are seeking to enhance bear populations and prepare for potential bear population growth in the state and elsewhere in the United States.