LISTEN: The North Carolina black bear revival

From deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains to densely populated subdivisions, black bears in North Carolina are a conservation success story. In the 1970s populations were estimated at fewer than 1,000. Today, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) considers black bears (Ursus americanus) fully restored.

In the latest episode of “Our Wild Lives,” Katie Perkins sits down with Colleen Olfenbuttel, TWS member, longtime bear biologist and the NCWRC game mammals and survey unit supervisor, to unpack how science-based management helped the rebound of the once-rare species. They also talk about how wildlife managers are tackling coexistence in a quickly urbanizing state.

From bears causing crop circles to educating the public about BearWise guidelines, listen in for practical tips and exciting stories from Olfenbuttel’s more-than-17 years working with black bears.

“Our Wild Lives” is The Wildlife Society’s weekly podcast, sharing compelling stories from wildlife professionals doing critical work around the world. Your hosts, Katie Perkins and Ed Arnett of The Wildlife Society, bring you thought-provoking conversations with leading experts and emerging voices.

New episodes are released weekly wherever you get your podcasts. Please email comms@wildlife.org with feedback or future episode suggestions.