The Florida panther is one of the most rare and endangered mammals in the world. Florida black bears are not usually aggressive, but you shouldn’t count on that, wildlife experts say. If you have bear spray with you (I didn't on any of these occasions), then get it ready in your hand. If possible, retreat slowly and give the bear plenty of space. Being attacked is extremely unlikely and probably avoidable. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in April. Like Winnie the Pooh, Florida black bears love honey; but also honeybees, fruits, nuts, twigs and small animals. Then move away quietly in the opposite direction. If you see a bear before it notices you: stand still, don’t approach and enjoy the moment. When it comes to wildlife, the black bear is the largest land mammal you are likely to see in Florida. Visit top-rated & must-see … If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior (stops feeding, changes its travel direction, watches you, etc.) Book your tickets online for the top things to do in Florida Panhandle, Florida on Tripadvisor: See 156,617 traveler reviews and photos of Florida Panhandle tourist attractions. By Charles Minshew and Stephen Hudak, Orlando Sentinel. They may dig for leftovers in a neighbor's garbage, then deposit that same meal in your backyard. Consider turning around and leaving the way you came. Then move away quietly in the opposite direction. Bears in Central Florida. Back way slowly and be sure the bear has an obvious escape route. How to Survive a Bear Attack: Brown Bears, Black Bears, Polar Bears, Oh My By Bryan Holt February 6, 2019 Bear attacks are not necessarily a ubiquitous occurrence in the wild, but they do happen. Florida black bears are not huge; female bears average about 180 lbs (82kg) and males 249 lbs (113 kg). Do not approach it, even to get a photo, and give it as much room as possible. Learn what to do if you see a bear by watching this short video. If you see a bear before it notices you: stand still, don’t approach and enjoy the moment. Do not approach it; Do not allow the bear to approach you. If you see a bear in the distance, respect its need for personal space. Biologists use radio collars to study the small number of panthers remaining in South Florida. Florida Panther. Words to the wise: Don't dare hit bears. If you must continue, back off a short distance, and give the bear time to leave the area. The only thing bigger is the aquatic manatee. Back away slowly, making sure the bear has a clear escape route. Don't announce your presence if the bear has not seen you. If You See a Brown Bear AND It Has Detected Your Presence. It is one of the largest states in the US and is home to a wide variety of ethnicities and cultures. Seeing a black bear is a thrilling and rewarding experience. If you see a bear from a distance, enjoy the experience, but do not move toward the bear. Florida black bears are not usually aggressive, but you shouldn’t count on that, wildlife experts say. To Florida Panther Description & Behavior To Why the Florida Panther is So Endangered . As such, it boasts hundreds of miles of sandy beaches , wildlife preserves, and sunny, lively cities that are … If you encounter a bear that’s aware of you: don’t run; running may trigger a chase response. 30 Amazing Hidden Gems in Florida Florida is the most southeast state in the US, bordered on the east by the Atlantic and on the west by the Gulf of Mexico. Bears at a distance. This might cause it to think you are prey and go chasing you in pursuit. Situated between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, Florida is famed for its amusement parks and offers the largest selection of zoos, aquariums, theme parks and other family attractions found in any of the US states. DO NOT RUN: Absolutely do not run. You might also see them at Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. If you are close, do not make any sudden or abrupt movements. DO NOT look the bear in the eye: This is taken as a sign of aggression. They lumber down the street as if they own the place — and who are we to argue? The only thing bigger is the aquatic manatee. “There have been very, very few injuries caused by bears in Florida,” said James Perran Ross, who recently retired from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. If you see a bear: Remain watchful. But it is important to remember that bears are wild animals and deserve respect. Words to the wise: Don't dare hit bears. How to Survive a Bear Attack: Brown Bears, Black Bears, Polar Bears, Oh My By Bryan Holt February 6, 2019 Bear attacks are not necessarily a ubiquitous occurrence in the wild, but they do happen. Living in Bear Country. Then move away quietly in the opposite direction. If you are not careful, you could break the law and risk both your own safety and the bear's. We have reviews of the best places to see in Florida Panhandle. Florida Black Bear. You might also see them at Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando.