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We developed a transmitter drop technique that improved interpretation of habitat-use data by black bears (Ursus americanus). The study was conducted in Harmon Den Bear Sanctuary, Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina, during 1985-87. To assess the accuracy and value of transmitter drops, habitat-use data obtained with this technique was compared to those collected using conventional aerial and ground tracking. We used 1,697 ground locations, 204 aerial locations, and 111 transmitter drops to determine the habitat types used by 14 radio-tagged female black bears. Habitat use, as determined by the 3 tracking methods, varied among methods. Ground tracking suggested bears used white oak (Quercus alba)-red oak (Q. rubra)-hickory (Carya spp.) cover types more than expected and yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipfera) cover types less than expected in 1986-87. During 1985 ground tracking suggested bears used all cover types in proportion to availability. Aerial telemetry suggested bears avoided yellow poplar stands over all years. Data from transmitter drops detected differences in habitat use for all years. Yellow poplar-white oak-northern red oak and chestnut oak (Q. prinus) cover types were used more than expected and nonforest, pine (Pinus spp.), mixed hardwood, and yellow poplar stands were used less than expected.