As part of the Marathon Public Library’s Summer Speaker Series, a one-time special event will be held next Thursday, August 10th, at the Marathon Community Center at 6pm. This particular session will feature Nicole Dickan and Matt Hewitt, research technicians from the Borderlands Research Institute (BRI), presenting their study on the natural recolonization of black bears in the Big Bend region.
The black bear population in West Texas has been growing, and sightings have become increasingly common in recent years. Once found throughout the area but having dwindled in the mid-20th century, black bears began returning to Big Bend National Park in the 1980s. Their population has rebounded as black bears from northern Mexico have expanded their territory into Texas.
This multiyear study, named “Understanding Natural Recolonization of Black Bears in West Texas,” explores the movement of 30 collared bears over a period of two to five years in regions surrounding Big Bend National Park, north to the Davis Mountains, and east to the Devils River corridor.
The project, led by the Borderlands Research Institute at Sul Ross State University, aims to understand various aspects of bear ecology, such as ranging habits, population numbers, seasonal diets, and more. The objective is to minimize human-bear conflicts and to guide management decisions that reflect the needs and behaviors of the bears.
The research has revealed insights into bear behavior, such as the ineffectiveness of relocating nuisance bears. For example, one bear, humorously dubbed the “dumpster diver,” was tracked returning to populated areas even after relocation. The data highlights the importance of community engagement and bear-proofing measures to allow peaceful coexistence between humans and bears.
The event at the Marathon Community Center is a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to learn about this complex and intriguing subject directly from researchers involved in the study. As part of the Marathon Public Library’s diverse Summer Speaker Series, the presentation on black bears promises to be a highlight, offering valuable insights and fostering informed dialogue within the community.
Interested parties are encouraged to attend and take part in this enriching educational experience, contributing to the understanding and appreciation of the return of black bears to West Texas. The event will provide an excellent platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration as the community navigates the challenges and rewards of living in harmony with this charismatic species.
Image Credit: Borderlands Research Institute
