PIKE COUNTY, Mo. — Black bears are an exciting part of Missouri’s natural history, and they’re making a comeback in the southern part of the state. Follow these guidelines to Be Bear Aware — stay safe in bear country, and keep our bears wild.
Report all bear sightings to Missouri Department of Conservation staff.
A FED BEAR IS A DEAD BEAR
- Never feed a bear!
- Feeding bears makes them lose their natural fear of humans, and teaches them to see humans as food providers. They will learn to go to places like homes, campsites, and neighborhoods to look for food, instead of staying in the forest.
- A bear that has gotten used to getting food from humans may become aggressive and dangerous. When this happens, the bear has to be destroyed.
- Help bears stay wild and healthy, and keep yourself and your neighbors safe. Don’t feed bears.
