Missouri Conservation Officials Remind Residents to Be Bear Aware This Fall

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - As autumn settles in, Missouri conservation officials are reminding residents that black bears remain active across southern and central parts of the state, including parts of the Parkland, as they prepare for winter hibernation. 

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) says fall is a critical time for bears, which are entering a phase called hyperphagia, meaning they eat almost constantly to build up fat reserves before denning season. During this time, bears may roam farther and become more visible as they search for food sources such as acorns, berries, and crops.

MDC officials urge residents to remove potential food attractants around homes and campsites, including bird feeders, pet food, and unsecured trash. They also advise anyone who encounters a bear to stay calm, make noise to ensure the bear knows you’re there, and slowly back away, never run. Although the state’s bear population remains small, estimated at around 1,000 animals, it continues to grow and expand northward.

Sightings have become more frequent in counties across the Ozarks and even into parts of Jefferson, St. Francois, and Washington counties. The MDC encourages the public to report bear sightings through its online Bear Tracker tool, which helps researchers monitor population health and movement.

For more information on living with black bears, visit mdc.mo.gov/bearaware