American Black Bears are found in Mississippi, representing a significant wildlife comeback. Their populations have steadily recovered after historical declines. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks monitors these bears, recognizing their role in the state’s natural ecosystems. Understanding their habits and distribution helps residents and visitors safely coexist with these animals.
The American Black Bear in Mississippi
Mississippi is home to two black bear subspecies: the American black bear, found in the northern part of the state, and the Louisiana black bear, inhabiting the southern two-thirds. These bears generally have black fur with brown muzzles, and some may display a white chest patch. Adult males typically weigh between 150 and 400 pounds, while females range from 100 to 250 pounds. Black bears measure between 3 and 6 feet long from nose to tail and stand 2 to 3 feet tall at the shoulder.
Black bears are classified as carnivores, yet their diet primarily consists of plant material, making up to 90% of what they consume. This includes acorns, berries, grasses, and agricultural crops like corn and wheat. Insects and carrion provide most of their protein. Historically, Mississippi’s black bear populations dwindled to fewer than 50 individuals by 2002 due to habitat loss and overhunting, leading to their classification as an endangered species. However, current estimates indicate a substantial increase, with the population having more than tripled since 2002.
Where Bears Live and Why They’re There
American Black Bears in Mississippi are predominantly found in three areas: the Gulf Coast, the Loess Bluffs of southwest Mississippi, and the Mississippi River Delta. They also inhabit forested areas near major river drainages, including the Mississippi, Pearl, and Pascagoula Rivers. Bears are highly adaptable, thriving in remote bottomland hardwood forests, but they can also utilize fragmented habitats and agricultural lands. Sightings have increased across the state, with more recent occurrences noted towards central Mississippi.
The increasing numbers and expanding range of black bears in Mississippi are largely attributed to natural recolonization from established populations in neighboring Arkansas and Louisiana. Habitat restoration efforts, such as land retirement programs, have improved the suitability and abundance of bear habitat. Documented reproducing female bears and cubs in recent years indicate the establishment of breeding subpopulations within the state. Male bears often travel significant distances, contributing to their range expansion across Mississippi.
Coexisting with Mississippi’s Bears
As black bear populations grow, understanding how to safely coexist with them becomes important for residents and visitors. Bears are opportunistic foragers, and conflicts with humans often arise when bears are attracted to readily available food sources. To prevent such encounters, secure trash, pet food, bird feeders, and barbecue grills, as these items can entice bears onto private property. Bears have an acute sense of smell, significantly better than a dog’s, allowing them to detect food from a distance.
If a bear encounter occurs, remain calm and avoid running, as this can trigger a chase instinct. Instead, make noise by talking or clapping to make your presence known, and slowly back away to give the bear space. Although black bears are generally shy and not aggressive toward humans, they are powerful wild animals and should be treated with caution. There has never been a documented attack on a person by a bear in Mississippi. In bear country, carrying bear spray provides an additional safety measure.