If you come across a Black Bear den in Wisconsin, do this immediately after

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging Wisconsin residents to report sightings of black bear dens throughout the state. This call to action is part of an ongoing research effort focusing on black bear reproductive patterns.

The initiative, known as the Black Bear Litter and Diet Survey, aims to produce accurate estimates of black bear birth rates in various bear management zones. These figures are crucial for refining the population models used by the DNR.

About the survey

Now in its fourth year, the survey targets occupied bear dens across Wisconsin. While reports are accepted from all areas, data from bear management zones C, D, and E, located in the central and western regions of the state, are particularly needed.

Dr. Jennifer Price Tack, a DNR large carnivore and elk research scientist, emphasized the study’s importance. “It is important for the study that we get collars out in each of the bear management zones.,” she said. “This will allow us to better inform bear population estimates for each zone, which in turn support management decision making.”

Public contributions play a vital role in this study. Since finding bear dens is uncommon, citizen reports are essential for meeting the study’s goals and improving the precision of population estimates. Individuals are encouraged to provide detailed information about dens without disrupting them.

Information that assists the research team includes:

• GPS coordinates of the den
• A photograph showing the den and its surroundings from a safe distance (about 30 yards)
• Descriptions of the den site and nearby area
• Details about bear activities and sightings near the den

Upon receiving reports, Price Tack’s team collaborates with reporters and landowners to assess each den’s suitability for study, focusing on safety and accessibility. If a survey is scheduled, those who reported the dens, along with landowners, may participate. However, priority is given to dens confirmed to be currently occupied.

Data collection process

During den visits, DNR personnel gather biological data, such as the bears’ sex, age, weight, and measurements. Crucially, mother bears, known as sows, are equipped with GPS collars. These devices provide valuable insights into bear behavior and facilitate tracking of sows in subsequent years, enabling researchers to analyze their reproductive success.

To ensure bear safety, designated staff carefully monitor the sows’ vital signs while collecting data. Cubs present are weighed and sexed, kept warm in researchers’ coats due to their inability to self-regulate body temperature. After data collection and collar placement, the bears are returned to their den.

This meticulous process is showcased in an episode of PBS Wisconsin’s “Wisconsin Life” series.

Future plans

Over the next four to five years, the Black Bear Litter and Diet Survey aims to place approximately 100 collars across the management zones, targeting about 20 collars per zone. This effort will help gather comprehensive data on bear populations.

Those able to contribute to this research should submit black bear den information via the DNR’s form.