Mississippi wildlife officials conduct annual bear den checks

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks staff are conducting their annual black bear den checks as part of ongoing research efforts. The checks, which began in early March, focus on monitoring bear reproduction by inspecting dens of collared sows.

Female bears typically give birth to cubs from late January to early February. During the den checks, wildlife officials sedate the sows to take measurements and collect genetic samples from their cubs. Afterward, the cubs are returned to their dens, and the sows are awakened.

Officials say most of this year’s den checks are nearly complete. They also announced plans for the 2026 Mississippi Black Bears Week, scheduled for April 26 to May 2, encouraging the public to follow their updates and participate in the weeklong event.

Source: Original Article