Missouri Issues 6 Warnings About 1,000+ Black Bears

This is the time of year when it's most vital to be bear aware in Missouri as these apex predators are more active than ever searching for food sources after a long winter's nap which has led to the state issuing 6 warnings about what you can do to be safe.

The Missouri Department of Conservation recently dropped a warning to residents about how black bears are now at the peak of their activity as the Spring months involve them consuming as much food as possible. The state authorities said an "estimated 1,000+ black bears are waking up and are focused on fattening up after a long winter’s sleep". Here's what they say you need to watch out for and do:

• Make sure your garbage is secured inside or in bear-proof containers
• If you have a grill or smoker, clean it and store it inside if at all possible
• If you have outside pets, feed them and don't store food outside
• Don't use birdfeeders if you live in the parts of Missouri with the highest black bear populations between April and November
• If you have a beehive, chicken coop, garden or orchard, surround them with electric fencing
• When camping, store all food and trash in bear-proof containers or in a secure vehicle - you can also store food strung high between two trees - do not bury or burn garbage

If you look at the Missouri Department of Conservation's bear sightings map, you can see that nearly all of the state needs to be bear-aware.