Researchers with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) have been conducting their annual black bear den checks, a crucial part of monitoring bear reproduction across the state.
Female black bears, known as sows, typically give birth between late January and early February, making early March the ideal time for wildlife biologists to conduct den checks.
Over the past few weeks, MDWFP’s Wildlife Bureau staff have successfully located multiple collared female bears in their winter dens to assess the health of their newborn cubs.
During these checks, sows are carefully sedated while researchers measure, tag, and collect genetic samples from the cubs before safely returning them to the den. The mother bear is then gently woken up, ensuring minimal disturbance to her and her offspring.
With this year’s den check season nearly complete, MDWFP promises more bear-related content in the coming weeks. Officials also encourage wildlife enthusiasts to mark their calendars for MDWFP’s 2025 Bear Week, taking place April 27 – May 3.
For updates and more insights into Mississippi’s black bear population, follow MDWFP on social media and stay tuned for Bear Week 2025!
