Where do black bears in the US live?

American black bears (Ursus americanus) are found in a wide variety of habitats across the United States. They are the most common and widespread bear species in North America and can be found in forests, mountains, deserts, and even some urban areas.

Here is a general overview of where black bears live in the US:

* Eastern North America: Black bears are common in the eastern forests of the US, stretching from Maine to Florida and westward to the Great Plains. They are found in the forests of New England, the Adirondacks, the Appalachian Mountains, and the Ozarks.

* Western North America: Black bears are widely distributed in the western US, including areas of the Rocky Mountains, the Pacific Northwest, the Sierra Nevada, and the Cascades. They are found in states such as California, Oregon, Washington, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado.

* Southwestern US: Black bears are also found in the deserts and mountains of the southwestern US, including areas of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Texas. They are found in habitats such as the Sonoran Desert, the Mojave Desert, and the Chihuahuan Desert.

* Great Plains and Midwest: Black bears can also be found in some parts of the Great Plains and the Midwest, particularly in forested areas near major rivers and streams.

It's important to note that black bear populations can vary in size and distribution based on a variety of factors, including habitat availability, human interaction, and hunting regulations. Additionally, some black bears may exhibit migration patterns or movements in search of food or mates, which can affect their distribution at different times of the year.