Based on 3,741 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Tennessee, American Black Bear is most often recorded in May; in Tennessee it behaves like a summer visitor / breeder. It ranks #3 among mammals recorded in the state in our data.
Ursus americanus
American Black Bear in Tennessee by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in Tennessee in May
White-tailed Deer
Eastern Gray Squirrel
Eastern Cottontail
Groundhog
Eastern Chipmunk
Common Raccoon
Virginia Opossum
Coyote
Places to look in Tennessee
Botanical GardenCheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art
National ForestCherokee National Forest
State ParkBicentennial Mall State Park
State ParkDunbar Cave State Park
State ParkFort Pillow State Park
State ParkMeeman-Shelby Forest State Park
FAQ
When does American Black Bear appear in Tennessee?
Mainly April–October, with the most records in May.
How common is American Black Bear in Tennessee?
It ranks #3 by number of iNaturalist observations among mammals in Tennessee (3,741 records in our sample).