Mississippi wildlife officials conduct annual bear den checks

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks officials are conducting their annual checks of bear dens as part of ongoing research into black bear reproduction, according to a department statement.

Wildlife staff locate female bears in their winter dens, usually in early March, after cubs are born in late January or early February, the department said. The bears are sedated during the checks, allowing researchers to take measurements and genetic samples from the cubs before returning them to the den and waking the mother.

The department reported that this year’s den checks are nearly complete. Officials also announced plans for MDWFP’s 2026 Bear Week, scheduled from April 26 to May 2, inviting the public to participate in events celebrating Mississippi’s black bears.

More bear-related content is expected in the coming weeks, the department added.

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