As of 2025, the black bear population in Arkansas was estimated at about 5,000 individuals.
October 06, 2025
high
statistical
Contemporary population estimate for black bears in Arkansas
In the 1950s and 1960s, hundreds of black bears were reintroduced into the Ouachita and Ozark mountains of Arkansas.
January 01, 1950
high
historical
Mid-20th century reintroduction programs to restore black bear populations in Arkansas
By the 1930s, the black bear population in Arkansas had declined to fewer than 50 individuals.
January 01, 1930
high
temporal
Historical decline of black bear numbers in Arkansas prior to mid-20th century conservation efforts