Filmed in Bobby’s yard, featuring one very determined South Walton black bear making his morning rounds.
A black bear’s daily schedule is simple: wake up early, avoid people, find breakfast, and never turn down a good buffet.
Before most of South Walton has made coffee, a black bear may already be on the move beneath the pines. He knows the woods, the palmettos, the berry patches, and every shortcut through the trees.
He also knows that humans have garbage cans.
Now, he did not wake up thinking, “Today I shall create a neighborhood incident.” He is simply following his nose, which is a whole lot better than ours. If last night’s shrimp, chicken bones, or takeout container is sitting in an unsecured bin, well, to him that is not trash. That is a catered breakfast with curbside service.
No reservation. No dress code. No tip required.
A bear who finds food at a home remembers it, same as the rest of us remember a restaurant with a generous portion and free bread. Once he learns that a certain driveway regularly serves dinner, he may return. And every easy meal makes him more comfortable around homes and people.
That is where the fun ends for everybody.
The good news is that keeping bears wild does not require a wilderness survival course or a bear whistle hanging around your neck. It mostly comes down to removing the things that smell like an open invitation:
- Secure garbage in a garage, shed, or bear-resistant container
- Put trash out the morning of pickup when possible
- Feed pets indoors and bring bowls inside
- Clean grills after cooking
- Remove birdseed, fallen fruit, and unsecured compost
- Never feed or approach a bear
- Give a bear plenty of space to leave
And bless it, a screened porch is not bear-proof. It barely holds its own against pollen and an enthusiastic Labrador.
Black bears are an important part of living near Florida’s wild spaces. Seeing one from a safe distance can be pretty special. Helping keep food away from homes protects people, property, and most of all, the bear. The best outcome is simple: he finds what he needs in the wild, keeps moving through the pines, and nobody has to pick up coffee grounds and shrimp tails before breakfast.
South Walton Black Bear FAQ
Are black bears common in South Walton?
They are not checking Zillow listings, but yes, black bears live throughout Northwest Florida and may pass through wooded South Walton neighborhoods. Most are just traveling, looking for natural food, and hoping nobody has left a five-star trash buffet at the curb.
What attracts black bears to homes in South Walton?
Garbage, pet food, birdseed, dirty grills, compost, and fallen fruit are the big ones. A bear is not being “bad.” He is being wildly efficient, which is impressive until he redecorates your driveway with coffee grounds and last night’s shrimp shells.
What should I do if I see a black bear in my yard?
Stay calm, keep your distance, bring pets inside if you can do so safely, and give the bear a clear way to leave. Do not approach it for a photo or try to make friends. This is not a Disney casting call.
Will a black bear attack people?
Florida black bears generally avoid people. The best move is to keep your distance, never feed them, and do not corner or surprise one. Bears would much rather avoid an awkward encounter too.
