DNR Biologist: Sighted Black Bear Could Be Over 16 years Old

Fourteen years ago, the black bear sighted at Carnes Crossroads was 70 miles away, either in Georgetown or Horry counties. 

Likely a male bear, he was one of 35 bears tagged and radiocollared during a study of South Carolina black bears. It appears that the bear — which is probably older than 16 years old since the study included only bears older than 2 years old — has become a part of the Francis Marion bear population since the study was conducted in 1999, according Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Biologist Denna Ruth.

There are about 125 bears in the Francis Marion and Goose Creek is at the far-reaches of bear country in the state, Ruth said.

At more than 16 years old, is the Carnes Crossroad black bear old for a wild bear? Well, he's no spring chicken. Ruth said the oldest documented wild bear in South Carolina was 19 years old.

"He's getting up there in age," Ruth said.

So, why would the bear visit Goose Creek?

Ruth said 2013 has been a very active year for black bears and sightings have increased. She said it might be related to the weather patterns. But she did offer some advice. 

"Do not be alarmed, this is the season to see them ... Bears throughout the state have been very, very active," Ruth said.