Bear Sightings in Columbia Highlight Growing Population

Recent black bear sightings in Columbia, including a late-night appearance in a gym parking lot, are a reminder that Missouri’s black bear population is growing.

Missouri’s black bear population has climbed to around 1,000 animals and continues to expand beyond its core range in the Ozarks.

“As the population grows, bears are naturally spreading out,” said Bob Pierce, University of Missouri Extension state wildlife and fisheries specialist. “They can travel long distances, so it’s not unusual to see one moving through areas like Columbia.”

While most bears remain in southern Missouri, they can roam into agricultural areas, suburbs and cities, especially as younger bears search for food and territory.

Black bears are generally considered less aggressive than grizzlies or brown bear species and are more likely to avoid people, Pierce said.  But they are still large, powerful wild animals, and they can be dangerous if they feel threatened or become accustomed to human food.

In most cases, bears spotted in town are simply passing through. But what brings them into neighborhoods is usually the same thing: easy access to food.

Black bears rely heavily on their sense of smell and will seek out garbage, pet food, bird seed and other calorie-rich sources. Once they begin feeding on human-related foods, they can lose their natural wariness of people.

“That’s when you start to see repeat visits,” Pierce said. “If there’s nothing here for them to eat, most bears won’t stick around.”

Staying safe around bears

If you see a bear, the most important step is to keep your distance, Pierce said. Never approach a bear, and stay at least 100 yards away if possible. If you’re inside a building or vehicle, remain there.

Residents can also reduce the chances of an encounter by removing attractants:

—Secure trash, pet food and bird feeders

—Avoid leaving food outdoors

—Never intentionally feed a bear

If you encounter a bear outdoors, give it space and back away slowly. Most bears will avoid people if they have a clear path to leave.

Keep pets under control, as dogs can provoke a defensive reaction.

A conservation success — with new challenges

Black bears were once common in Missouri, but habit loss and unrestricted hunting sharply reduce populations. Their numbers have been growing over the past several decades as forests recovered and populations expanded from neighboring states. Today’s population growth is considered a conservation success, Pierce said.

But it also means more shared space between people and wildlife.

“Missouri is bear country again,” he said. “Seeing a bear can be surprising, but it doesn’t have to be a problem if people understand how to respond.”