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Bears

Although black bears are native to Missouri, they were nearly wiped out during settlement. Now they're making a comeback. Use this section to follow our black bear research project, report bear sightings, camp safely in bear country and control nuisance bears.

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Black Bear Management Plan

This black bear management plan (in PDF format) provides the guidance and continuity for their conservation and management in Missouri. The plan was organized and prepared by a team of inter-agency resource professionals, and approved by the Conservation Commission in 2008. More

Report a Bear Sighting

Use this online form to tell us about your bear sighting. If you submit photos or physical evidence, we reserve the right to publish these photos on our website or in publications More

Related Information

  • Black BearOne of the largest wild mammals in the state, the black bear is unmistakable with its black fur and powerful bearing.
  • Black bear study underway in MissouriThe study, which is being funded through the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Wildlife Restoration program with help from Safari Club International, will provide information about the movement patterns, population densities, habitat preferences and overall numbers of Missouri bears.
  • Camping in Bear Country

    Black bears are large, powerful wild animals and should be treated with respect. Be alert in areas where bears are active. DO NOT approach any bear in the wild.

  • Controlling Nuisance Bears

    Nuisance black bears are not a statewide problem in Missouri. Generally they are confined to the southern counties, but they have been reported in a few northern counties as well. In the early spring, black bears emerge from their dens very hungry at a time when natural foods are scarce. It also is in the spring that family groups break up and breeding season begins.

  • Southeast Missouri black bear trapping to begin in MayStudy will provide further information, such as movement patterns, population densities, habitat preferences, male-to-female ratios and overall numbers of Missouri bears.

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