What’s with all the bears on the Coast? Here’s what an expert has to say
Black bear sightings have been reported across several Mississippi Coast neighborhoods, including Biloxi, Bay St. Louis and Gulfport, following last week’s torrential rainfall. Wildlife officials are urging residents to take precautions as the state’s bear population continues to grow.
FULL STORY: Black bear sightings reported in several Coast neighborhoods. Here’s why
Here are key takeaways:
- Anthony Ballard, black bear program leader with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, said attractants like dog food, bird feeders, trash cans and grills can draw bears into neighborhoods. He noted a bear’s sense of smell is about seven times better than a bloodhound’s.
- Ballard advised residents to stay calm and keep their distance during an encounter, giving the bear room to escape. He said black bears are not typically aggressive and do not seek out conflict.
- Increased activity in May and June is tied to the bears’ life cycle, Ballard said, with young males venturing out for the first time and larger males covering more ground seeking mating opportunities.
- Tropical Storm Arthur may be pushing wildlife into new areas, according to Ballard. Jackson County recorded 20 inches of rainfall between Friday and Sunday, with wind gusts up to 78 mph across the Coast.
- Aggressive bear behavior should be reported to 1-800-BE-SMART. Nonaggressive sightings can be reported on the department’s website or the Mississippi Black Bears Facebook page.
The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists. The full story in the link at top was reported, written and edited entirely by journalists.
This story was originally published June 28, 2026 at 11:42 AM.
Lillian Foster
Sun Herald