As black bears continue their slow but steady return to parts of Texas, sightings have become more frequent across the state — from North Texas all the way to the Big Bend region. Thanks to conservation efforts and natural recolonization from Mexico, Texas residents are being reminded by state wildlife officials to stay Bear Aware as we reported here at Texas Fish & Game.
Here’s a roundup of some of the most recent black bear encounters in Texas:
North Texas – Savoy (Fannin County) – June 2025
A young black bear surprised residents when it wandered through a gas station parking lot in Savoy, even strolling past a nursing home.
As reported by Houston Chronicle
West Texas – South of Alpine – April 2025
A collared black bear was seen roaming near homes outside Alpine, inspecting livestock enclosures and chicken coops. Residents were urged to secure food sources to avoid attracting the bear closer to homes.
As reported by San Antonio Express-News
Further coverage by Houston Chronicle
Trans-Pecos Region – Bear Den Research – June 2025
Wildlife researchers in the Big Bend region documented a den of black bear cubs during recent collaring and research efforts, offering important data on the growing bear population.
As reported by Midland Reporter-Telegram
Final Thoughts: Stay Bear Aware, Texas
While black bears are still a relatively rare sight for most Texans, the uptick in sightings signals the importance of safe coexistence. As Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reminds:
-
Secure garbage, pet food, and livestock feed.
-
Never approach or feed a bear.
-
Use noise to deter curious bears.
-
Always report sightings to TPWD or a Game Warden.
If you have any black bear photos from Texas send them to cmoore@fishgame.com. We would love to share them here.