Black bears are roaming in MS more right now. Here’s how to keep them from your backyard
Black bears are emerging from their winter dens, making sightings more likely across Mississippi this season.
While coming into contact with a bear can be scary, attacks are rare as black bears aren’t predatory and tend to avoid people, according to wildlife experts at the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
“Mississippi black bears are normally very shy and not aggressive toward humans,” experts said. “There has never been a case documented in Mississippi of a human being attacked by a bear.”
Still, knowing what to do in case of a bear encounter can make all the difference. Here’s what to know in case you see a black bear in Mississippi:
What do black bears look like?
Black bears have round ears, short tails and black fur with a small patch of white on their chest known as a blaze, according to wildlife experts. They range in size from three to six feet long and weigh anywhere from 100 to 400 pounds.
Where do black bears live?
Mississippi is home to these two types of black bears: the American black bear, found in the northern part of the state, and the Louisiana black bear, found in the southern half.
They typically live in forested or swampy areas and places with abundant food sources, experts said.
How to deter black bears from your home
Here are some tips for keeping bears away from your home, according to Bearwise:
- Make sure to lock places containing food or anything that might smell good to a bear. Don’t leave any food or pet food available, even if it’s on a screened-in porch or deck
- Make sure to keep food and empty food containers, wrappers and cans out of your car. Keep your car windows rolled up and your doors locked
- Take down bird feeders as they may tempt bears
What to do if you come in contact with a black bear
If you see a bear, remember to stay calm. You don’t want to run as that could trigger a chase response. Here’s what else you should do, according to Bearwise:
- Give the bear an escape route
- If the bear hasn’t noticed you, stand still then move away quietly
- When possible from a safe distance, make loud noises to scare the bear away
- Carry bear spray and use it if needed
If a bear is aggressive toward you, you should remain calm, try and make yourself look bigger and make loud noises, prepare to fight or use bear spray, experts said.
You can also report black bear sightings to the MDWFP online.
Can you hunt black bears in MS?
No, you cannot hunt black bears as they are a state-protected species in Mississippi.
About two decades ago, there were fewer than 50 bears in the state. Since then, bear estimates have nearly tripled, but they remain endangered species in the Magnolia State, according to the MDWFP.
Recently, state lawmakers introduced a bill to create a black bear hunting season in Mississippi, but it died after not receiving enough votes in the House.
