Mississippi residents urged to secure food as black bears roam

Mississippi residents urged to secure food sources as black bears roam in summer

HINDS COUNTY, Miss. —

After a handful of recent bear sightings in Hinds County, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is reminding residents to be bear-aware.

Each year in early summer, young black bears, especially males, cover long distances looking for a new place to call home. Black bears typically remain with adult female bears for the first 16 to 18 months of life before venturing out on their own. This roaming behavior is a normal and expected part of their development. During this journey, they may pass through towns and neighborhoods, attracted by easily accessible food sources.

“As Mississippi’s black bear population continues to grow and expand, it is important for residents to understand bear behavior and take simple precautions to prevent conflicts,” said Anthony Ballard, MDWFP Black Bear Program Lead. “Removing food attractants and giving bears space are the best ways to help ensure both people and wildlife remain safe.”

To reduce conflicts and keep both people and bears safe, MDWFP encourages residents to follow these tips this summer:

Secure trash and compost.Put away pet food that could be accessible to bears.Store bird feeders.Clean and secure grills and smokers.Notify neighbors if a bear is seen in the area so they can also take precautions.Never approach or feed bears. Take pictures or videos from a safe distance.

For more information on how to live responsibly with bears, MDWFP encourages residents to visit BearWise.org. By working together as a community, Mississippi’s black bears can continue to thrive while promoting safe, respectful coexistence with native wildlife.

If you spot a bear in Mississippi, MDWFP encourages you to report that sighting online.