This exploration of the intersection of wildlife and human populations in urban and suburban areas opens with four wildlife biologists studying the growing black bear population in and near Asheville, North Carolina. Their study acknowledges the challenges (and rewards) to humans who regularly encounter urban bears, dispels some misinformation about the species, and describes practical ways that co-living can be managed. Information gained from bears fitted with radio collars helps the biologists predict behavior and recommend ways to keep both bears and humans safe. Final chapters delve into how humans have historically made poor decisions involving interaction with wildlife, with outcomes that often threaten animal habitat and food supply. Other species that have adapted to encroaching urban landscapes are briefly presented, including leopards in Mumbai, wild boars in Berlin, and feral chickens in Hawaii. (Ages 9–13)

North Carolina's black bears were once a threatened species, but now their numbers are rising in and around Asheville. But what happens when conservation efforts for a species are so successful that there's a boom in the population? Can humans and bears live compatibly? What are the long-term effects for the bears? Author Amy Cherrix follows the scientists who, in cooperation with local citizen scientists, are trying to answer to these questions and more. Part field science, part conservation science, Backyard Bears looks at black bears--and other animals around the globe--who are rapidly becoming our neighbors in urban and suburban areas.

What happens when conservation efforts for a species are so successful that there's a boom in the population? Part field science, part conservation science, Backyard Bears looks at black bears--and other animals around the globe--who are rapidly becoming our neighbors in urban and suburban areas.
North Carolina's black bears were once a threatened species, but now their numbers are rising in and around Asheville. Can humans and bears live compatibly? What are the long-term effects for the bears? Author Amy Cherrix follows the scientists who, in cooperation with local citizens, are trying to answer to these questions and more.