
Michigan’s Black Bear Population on the Rise—But Where?
Though you may have never seen one in the wild, more black bears wander throughout Michigan than you may think. These hulking, lumbering omnivores have been living in the state far longer than your cottage up north.
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While they keep to themselves for the most part, they occasionally make surprise appearances in our backyards, bird feeders, and trash cans.
Where Do Michigan's Bears Live?
If you live in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, congratulations. You're in the epicenter of the state's bear population, where most of Michigan's black bears roam. Meanwhile, a growing number have decided that the Lower Peninsula is worth calling home.
So, why haven't you seen one? Well, black bears don't exactly go door to door and introduce themselves, but they do make appearances. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) receives hundreds of 'nuisance bear' (over 250 were filed in 2023, according to the Manistee News Advocate) reports annually, mostly from people who left food out or are just shocked to see one so close to their home.
What To Do If You Come Face-to-Face With a Michigan Black Bear
Rule #1 of Michigan black bear encounters: Don't run. You will not win that race. Stand your ground, make yourself look big by puffing up and raising your arms, and make noise.
If the bear still won't leave, and you have some, bear spray works (note to self: add bear spray to the shopping list). And in the rarest of cases, if a bear attacks you, fight back. They're known to meet with resistance and respect (hopefully lumbering away to tell their bear friends not to mess with you).
Just How Many Bears Are We Talking About?
Michigan is home to over 12,000 black bears, and NPR says the population continues to grow year over year. MLive reported that in 2022, the DNR counted 10,218 in the Upper Peninsula and 2,008 in the Lower Peninsula.
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So, let's all agree to keep our snacks secured and let the bears do their thing somewhere far away from our porches.
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Gallery Credit: Scott Clow
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Gallery Credit: Scott Clow