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This shapefile contains a range map of the Florida Black Bear. Before settlement by Europeans, black bears occupied all of mainland Florida including some coastal islands and larger keys. The occupied range has been reduced to 6 core areas (Eglin, Apalachicola, Osceola, Ocala, St. Johns, and Big Cypress) and 2 remnant areas (Chassahowitzka and Glades/Highlands). While bears can be found in areas outside of these ranges, evidence suggests that these areas are important for bears. A home range is an area that is inhabited in search of food, water and adequate cover. This shapefile contains rare, occasional, common and abundant ranges of the Florida black bear throughout the state of Florida. |