06/06/2026
Happy National Black Bear Day!
Today is a great day to celebrate one of North Carolina's most iconic wild residents, the American black bear.
This big boar was photographed in eastern North Carolina, home to some of the largest black bears in the world. Thanks to healthy habitats and decades of conservation efforts, black bears continue to thrive across much of our state, from the mountains to the coast.
If you're looking for a way to celebrate, head over to the National Black Bear Festival in Plymouth, NC, where you can enjoy wildlife exhibits, educational programs, local vendors, and plenty of opportunities to learn more about these incredible animals and the ecosystems they call home.
Black bears are far more than a symbol of the wild—they're an important part of North Carolina's natural heritage.
Have you ever seen a black bear in the wild?
