Yes, black bears are actively present in Mississippi, signaling a major success for regional conservation programs. After facing near extirpation due to habitat loss and overhunting, the state’s bear population has been slowly recovering and expanding its range for decades. State conservation efforts have focused on habitat restoration and public education, allowing the population to steadily increase from historic lows. The presence of these large mammals confirms the improving health of Mississippi’s major forest and river systems.
Identifying the Mississippi Black Bear
Mississippi black bears belong to the species Ursus americanus, the American black bear. The state is home to two distinct subspecies: the American black bear (U. a. americanus) in the northern third of the state and the Louisiana black bear (U. a. luteolus) residing in the southern two-thirds. Both subspecies are currently classified as endangered under Mississippi state law.
Physically, these bears are generally black, though they often possess a brown muzzle and may have a white patch of fur, known as a blaze, on their chest. Adult males typically weigh between 150 and 400 pounds, while females are smaller, ranging from 100 to 250 pounds. They stand about two to three feet tall at the shoulder and can reach a length of six feet from nose to tail.
The Louisiana black bear subspecies, once federally listed as threatened, is distinguished by a longer, narrower skull and proportionately larger molar teeth. Despite these minor differences, the two subspecies are visually indistinguishable to the average person. They have an acute sense of smell and strong physical build, enabling them to run up to 35 miles per hour and swim effectively.
Bear Population Distribution Across Mississippi
The black bear population is concentrated in three main geographic areas, all linked by dense forest cover and major river systems. The Mississippi River Delta region is a primary stronghold, particularly in the western counties along the river, such as Warren, Issaquena, and Bolivar. This area provides extensive bottomland hardwood forests, which are a preferred habitat for cover and food sources.
Another significant population center is located in the Loess Bluffs of southwest Mississippi, including counties like Adams and Wilkinson. This region’s habitat is critical for bears dispersing from Louisiana and maintaining a healthy population along the Mississippi River corridor, utilizing large tracts of forest cover and river resources.
The third major concentration is found along the Gulf Coast and its associated river drainages, most notably the Pascagoula River. This coastal plain area offers swamp forests and dense cover that support a stable subpopulation. In recent years, sightings have increased in central Mississippi, likely due to juvenile males dispersing widely from these core populations to establish their own territories.
Coexisting Safely with Bears
Living near black bears requires adopting specific habits to avoid attracting them, as conflicts almost always revolve around easily accessible food. Never intentionally feed a bear, as this removes their natural wariness of humans and can lead to dangerous encounters. Bears are opportunistic foragers and will take advantage of any easy meal, making prevention the best strategy.
Secure all household garbage in bear-resistant containers or store it inside a secure building until collection morning. Pet food should never be left outside, and outdoor feeding dishes should be brought in immediately after use. Bird feeders, which contain highly appealing seeds, should be removed entirely if a bear is known to be in the area, as bears can easily pull down suspended feeders.
If you encounter a bear in the wild, remain calm, and never run, as this may trigger a predatory response. Instead, enjoy the sighting from a safe distance and make noise (talking or clapping) to ensure the bear is aware of your presence. If the bear does not leave, back away slowly to exit the area without provoking the animal.