Black bears are re-establishing themselves in Missouri, making their presence a current reality for residents and visitors. Their population is increasing steadily after decades of near-absence. This resurgence means Missouri is officially bear country, particularly in the southern and central forested areas. Understanding the species and how to safely share the landscape is important for public awareness.
The American Black Bear in Missouri
The only bear species found in Missouri is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). These large, powerful omnivores vary in size; adult males typically weigh 125 to 500 pounds, while females range from 100 to 300 pounds. Although their fur is usually black, some individuals can exhibit coats that are dark brown, reddish-brown, or blonde.
Black bears primarily inhabit heavily wooded areas, often south of Interstate 44, finding shelter in hollow trees, brush piles, or rock bluffs. Their diet is varied and seasonal, consisting largely of plant matter. This includes grasses in the spring, fruits in the summer, and hard mast like acorns in the fall. They also consume insects, small mammals, and carrion.
Population Growth and Conservation Efforts
Black bears were nearly eliminated from Missouri by the early 1900s due to unregulated hunting and habitat loss. By the 1930s, they were considered extirpated, though genetic research suggests a small population may have survived in the south-central Ozarks. The modern population increase is due to natural expansion from neighboring states, particularly Arkansas, which had successful reintroduction programs starting in the late 1950s.
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) tracked this recovery, estimating the population at around 300 bears in 2012. By 2019, the estimated population had grown to a range of 540 to 840 bears statewide. This population is growing at an annual rate of nine percent, meaning the number of bears could double in a decade. This growth is attributed to high survival rates for female bears and the availability of suitable forested habitat in the Ozarks.
Coexisting Safely with Bears
As the bear population expands, minimizing human-bear conflict is a responsibility for residents and visitors. Preventing bears from accessing human food sources is the most effective way to keep them wild and discourage them from returning to populated areas. Bears have an excellent sense of smell and memory, meaning they will repeatedly visit locations where they previously found an easy meal.
Homeowners and campers should secure all potential attractants, as a fed bear often becomes habituated and may need to be removed. Garbage, recyclables, and pet food should be stored inside a secure building or a bear-proof container until trash pickup. Bird feeders should be removed entirely from April through November, the bear’s active season. Grills and smokers must be thoroughly cleaned after each use and stored indoors, as residual food odors are strong attractants.
During a direct encounter, remain calm and never run, as this may trigger a chase response. Back away slowly while facing the bear, and speak in a loud, firm voice to identify yourself as human. Raising your arms can make you appear larger, and you should ensure the bear has an unobstructed escape route. When traveling in bear country, making noise (such as clapping or talking loudly) is a good practice to avoid surprising a bear.