Iowa DNR Warns: Stay Alert as Black Bears Wake Up This Spring

As we progress further into late spring, the majority of the bear population has emerged from hibernation. Consequently, spotting black bears wandering about is becoming increasingly frequent, particularly in regions like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Missouri.

However, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources reports that approximately three to four bears have spent winter in Iowa, potentially leading to more frequent sightings of black bears within the state.

In the past, spotting black bears was much more frequent in this area since they were indigenous to Iowa. They faced near extinction by the late 1800s due to settlement activities. Yet, during the last half-decade, reports have shown a rise with roughly two to five sightings annually within the state.

The likelihood of spotting a black bear increases during this period of the year since May and June typically mark their breeding season.

So if you do see one, keep your distance, report it to your local DNR office or the city if you're within city limits. The best way to not encourage bears searching for food in town is to not leave anything edible outside, including bird and pet feeders, trash cans, and even your grill.

Usually, the black bear is just worried about food or female bears, so they're not usually too interested in humans. But we humans should not provide food sources for them. We strongly recommend folks just keep their distance if they see a bear. Enjoy the sighting. It's exciting to see a bear, but keep your distance. Be smart about it, use common sense." Says Vince Evelsizer, Furbearer and Wetland Biologist, for the Wildlife Research Section, Iowa Department of Natural Resources

If you find yourself near a black bear, which tends to be quite shy, create loud noises such as yelling or banging metallic objects from a secure spot. Ensure you do not trap them in an enclosed space since this may provoke more aggression.

The The city of Dubuque has enacted a new ordinance. this week that anyone caught feeding or pursuing a bear to harass them will get a fine of up to $750 for the first offense. That's after a bear sighting in city limits flooded social media last year.

In general, keep in mind that bears might be present in the region, particularly in northeast Iowa, but this shouldn’t discourage you from going outside and enjoying nature.

Incidents of this nature are exceedingly uncommon; from the year 1900 through to 2009, just three fatal encounters with bears occurred across Minnesota and Michigan, typically stemming from improperly stored provisions attracting these animals.

As of now, the Minnesota DNR Does include a map showcasing the most recent sightings throughout the state, with several located in Iowa and Wisconsin.

If you want additional details regarding black bears and strategies for living alongside them, you can obtain further information from BearWise.org .