Black Bears might be more associated with the Northwoods, but the Wisconsin DNR says they can be found anywhere in the state, and the agency is asking the public to help it assess their population.
It’s been some nine years since a 250-pound bear drew attention when it was spotted in a northwest Sheboygan neighborhood, but such sightings are likely to become more frequent. With an estimated population of 24,000 bears and growing, the animals are becoming increasingly common in the southern third of the state as they search for more territory.
The DNR conducts black bear den surveys each year, and now’s the time when unusual sounds of squeaking, grunting, humming or sucking betray the presence of a den with nursing cubs. If you spot such a den, you’re asked to stay at least 30 yards away and then compose a report listing the GPS coordinates, a photo of the den and its surroundings with a description of the site, and any activity noted. Reports may be submitted here.
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