An exciting part of living in a conservation-minded state like Missouri is that native black bear populations are on a comeback! The thought of seeing a bear in the wild could be a wonderful experience. Chances of seeing black bears are rising. By nature, most bears prefer to avoid humans. They will take efforts to steer clear from people when they smell or hear us approaching. Their natural fearful instincts of us have proven that the majority of black bears cause no problems. However, conflicts most likely occur when they start associating their food sources with people. Never feed a bear accidentally or purposefully for this very reason.
If you happen to encounter a bear in the wild or it is visiting suburban areas, it is wise to avoid human-bear conflicts. Black bears are seldom aggressive and attacks are rare. They must find food, water, and shelter, and most females are tasked with raising their cubs. With growing populations, comes the need to expand ranges. Bears may be exploring suburban areas for food or water. Most are simply passing through along waterways. Bears have a very strong sense of smell. They prefer their natural foods but may overcome their fear of humans if tempations are rewarded with unsecured human food.
The best advice for avoiding conflict is to stay at a safe distance. If you see the bear before it notices you stand still and enjoy the moment, then move away quietly in the opposite direction. It may be helpful to avoid surprising the bear by making loud noises, such as clapping or talking loudly. If the bear is aware of your presence, don’t run. Running may trigger a chase response. Again, back away slowly with your arms raised.
Humans and bears can co-exist with little conflict if we take responsibility to avoid interactions and minimize attractants to our properties.
Here are some basic tips to avoid conflicting encounters:
Outdoor Bear Aware Basics:
Stay alert & stay together
Never feed or approach bears
Leave no trash or food scraps
Keep dogs leashed
Camp safely https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/activities/camping/camping-and-hiking-black-bear-country
Know what to do if you see a bear
At-Home Bear Aware Basics (A fed bear is a dead bear):
Never feed or approach bears
Secure food, garbage, and recycling
Remove bird feeders when bears are active
Never leave pet food outdoors
Clean & store grills
Become bear aware and responsible!
Follow this link for added details:
https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/general-species-information/be-bear-aware
Report all bear sightings to the Missouri Department of Conservation Staff by:
1.) calling your regional office: https://mdc.mo.gov/regional-contacts or
2.) reporting online: https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/report-wildlife-sightings/bear-reports/report-bear-sighting
By: Amera Wild, an active member of Missouri Master Naturalists Chert Glades Chapter, MO Stream Team, Missouri Prairie Foundation, and Wildcat Glades Friends Group