Mississippi black bears make comeback after near extinction

Mississippi’s black bears are making a comeback after nearly being wiped out of the state. Once a staple of Delta hunting culture and vital to Native American life, the species declined sharply by 1932 due to overhunting and habitat loss, with fewer than 12 bears remaining, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.

Protections were enacted in the decades that followed, including federal laws in 1974 and state protections in 1992. In 2002, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science launched a black bear program focused on research and monitoring efforts.

Early work involved tracking bears, studying their habitat use, and understanding the population, which had dwindled to an estimated 20 to 40 animals. The program later transitioned to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, maintaining a focus on habitat management and inter-state cooperation.

Thanks to these long-term conservation efforts, the population has increased to an estimated 100 to 120 bears within the past decade. Officials say ongoing habitat stewardship and management continue to support the species’ recovery across the state.

Mississippi’s black bears are now on a path toward full restoration, officials added, highlighting the importance of sustained conservation efforts.

Source: Original Article