Where are the most bear sightings in Missouri?

Where are the most bear sightings in Missouri?

“Most bears live south of Interstate 44 in the southern part of the state, said Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation media specialist. “They can wander hundreds of miles though.”

Where are the most bears in Missouri?

Most Missouri bears live south of Interstate 44, but wandering individuals, mostly subadult males, have been seen as far north as the Iowa line. Counties adjoining the core bear range have more sightings than those north of I-44.

Where are black bear in Missouri?

Bear numbers and range in Missouri have grown to about 800 black bears with most found south of the Missouri River and primarily south of Interstate 44, according to MDC. The current population of bears is expected to double in a decade, which “is a pretty fast clip,” Conlee said.

Why are bears showing up in Missouri?

The Missouri Department of Conservation said an estimated 800 black bears call Missouri home, and as the spring season gets underway, these mammals leave their winter dens in search of food. That’s why the MDC is reminding Missourians to be proactive and “Be Bear Aware.” “Bears are hungry and searching for food.

How can you tell if a bear has been in an area?

BEAR

1. Parallel claw marks on tree trunk.
2. Bark often peeled back to show inner cambium.
3. Saplings broken partway up trunk.
4. On tree trunks, telephone poles, downed logs.

Are there grizzly bears in Missouri?

Grizzly bears never lived in Missouri. Black bears have the ability to survive in swampy habitats all the way to cold habitats. As long as there is a food source (back to that shortly), a black bear seems to have no problem living there.

What is the top predator in Missouri?

The top predator in Missouri is probably the bobcat. American black bears are mostly herbivores, but the bobcat is an obligate carnivore. This medium-sized cat has been known to take prey as large as deer.

Is there wolves in Missouri?

Wolves are rare in Missouri, having been extirpated since the early 1900s; occasional individuals wander here from other states. A federally endangered species protected by law.

Is it illegal to drive with an uncaged bear in Missouri?

For example, Missouri explicitly bans motorists from having uncaged bears in their vehicles. If you’re driving through Missouri and see a bear on the side of the road, resist the urge to stop and pick him up—even if he’s sticking out a claw and holding a cardboard sign that reads “Kansas City.”

What happens if a bear comes at you?

If you see a bear before it notices you: stand still, don’t approach and enjoy the moment. Then move away quietly in the opposite direction. If you encounter a bear that’s aware of you: don’t run; running may trigger a chase response. Back away slowly in the opposite direction and wait for the bear to leave.

What time are bears most active?

Bears are most active at dusk and dawn, usually around water.

Should you yell if you see a bear?

Avoid direct eye contact. Walk away slowly, if the bear is not approaching. If the bear charges, stand your ground (you cannot outrun it). Don’t scream or yell.