Bears not only make the habitat rich, but they also enrich us just by being – Linda Jo Hunter, author (1947-2024)

Black bears are much more adaptable, and willing and able to live in a much closer proximity to people – Linda Masterson, author, “Living with Bears”

My good friend Barbara and I were sitting in the sunroom sipping coffee and eating muffins when I looked out the glass door and saw a critter whisk by like lightening. I hollered for Sam. He stepped out but whatever it was it had flown by and was gone. I described the animal as being dark, or black but other than that I couldn’t explain what it might be. Sam was still holding the 22-rifle. He said it could have been a coyote. Then he noticed a black pup running 150 yards from the house with an awkward gait along the lake and into the woods. The neighbors were notified in case they were missing a pet, black in color, no collar. One neighbor saw such a “dog” run across the road in front of him. The day before Christmas I walked down the driveway with the Christmas cards I would leave for the Garbage Collectors. It was pitch dark. Across the road a hunter’s truck parked. I waited. Out of nowhere the black critter bolted out toward me then veered into our woods. Again, it was too fast and too dark to describe much about the critter. It didn’t look like a dog.

A day or two later we got a call from a neighbor. The land where the truck had been parked that night is hunting land. The land is protected by game cameras.  It was too late and too dark to get the camera shot. Much to the hunter’s surprise as he started to leave, he heard a growl and saw the black critter stand on its back legs. He said, “It was either a black cub or a 40lb raccoon. Where there is a bear cub there will most likely be a momma bear.   

Research posted bears are presence in our area. “Yes, black bears are present in or passing through Lowndes and Clay Counties, Mississippi, particularly near water sources like creeks, which would include Tibbee Creek just a short way beyond these woods. Sightings increase as populations grow and males wander, especially looking for food and mates.”

From Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, here’s some posting “Yes, black bear sightings occur in and around Columbus, MS, with reports increasing as bears disperse, often near fruit trees looking for food sources.” The MDWFP confirms rising activity and urges residents to report sightings and maintain distance, as black bears are protected and conflicts usually stem from food, not aggression.

Here from The Six At-Home Bearwise Basics: Never feed or approach bears. Secure Food, Garbage and Recycling, remove bird feeders when bears are active. Never leave Pet Food Outdoors. Clean And Store Grills, Smokers, Alert Neighbors To beware of Bear Activity.   

Shannon Bardwell is a writer living quietly in the Prairie. Email reaches her at [email protected].