Attitudes toward Black Bear*

Mean

S.D.

Positive attitude (α = 0.77)

I enjoy seeing black bears in natural areas

Bears are an important part of our ecosystem

Black bears should be conserved for future generations

Bears are not a threat to people

Seeing a black bear increases my appreciation of nature

It is important for me to know black bears exist, even if I never see one

5.58

5.14

6.12

6.22

4.18

5.53

6.29

1.27

1.55

.95

1.11

1.58

1.47

.98

Negative attitude (α = 0.63)

I worry about problems bears might cause to my property

Risk of being injured by a bear in a natural area is high

Black bears are a nuisance

2.99

3.29

3.12

2.55

1.54

1.81

1.55

1.26

Environment and management statement (α = 0.61)

People should learn to live with black bears near their homes

Black bears are being properly managed in this area

State governments should buy land for bear conservation

4.75

4.86

4.52

4.91

1.48

1.60

1.04

1.79