With the weather turning warmer, black bears are waking up across the state and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is reminding residents to be “BearWise.”
Missouri is currently home to an estimated population of over 1,000 black bears, all of which are emerging from their winter dens with a primary focus on finding calories. Biologists warn that unsecured food sources near homes and outbuildings are the most common attractants for these hungry animals as they attempt to gain two to three pounds a day.
MDC Furbearer Biologist Nate Bowersock emphasizes that the best way to prevent conflict is to remove or secure human-related food sources. This includes bird feeders, trash, barbecue grills, pet food, and general food waste. By keeping residential areas free of these attractants, bears are forced to rely on natural food sources, which keeps them wild and prevents them from associating humans with an easy meal.
The consequences of feeding bears, whether intentional or accidental, can be fatal for the animal. When bears lose their natural fear of humans, they may become bold, approach people, or turn defensive over food sources found near homes. Because habituated bears often cannot be safely relocated, they frequently have to be destroyed. As the saying goes, “a fed bear is a dead bear.”
To minimize risks around the home, the MDC recommends storing garbage and compost inside secure buildings or bear-proof containers. Grills should be kept clean and stored indoors, while pet food should never be left outside. For those in bear country, it is best to avoid bird feeders from April through November. Additionally, electric fencing is highly effective at protecting beehives, chicken coops, and gardens from foraging bears.