Wild Paws is committed to giving a home to displaced wildlife of all species. If there is an animal that has become a nuisance, is orphaned, or injured, we are here to help and provide care.

Black bears in MN and WI

There are an estimated 12,000-15,000 black bears living in Minnesota, and approximately 24,000 black bears living in Wisconsin. Their habitat consists of forests, swamps, and other densely covered areas. A black bear diet varies depending on the season - they typically feed on green vegetation in spring, ants and ant pupae in June, a variety of berries in summer, and nuts (primarily acorns and hazelnuts) in autumn.

What is a nuisance black bear?

A nuisance black bear is any black bear that is considered unwelcome. While black bears typically stay away from humans, they are large, powerful, and can move quickly. This can cause humans to feel threatened by them, even though they typically are not aggressive animals. 

Black bear – human interactions

Bears are intelligent animals, and while they can find all the food they need in their forest habitat, they will always find food sources if they are left out, especially of any nutrient dense foods. Once a bear finds a new food source, it will continue to return – so make sure you are taking the proper steps to not attract them!

How to prevent conflict with black bears

With more and more people living and building cabins and homes in northern MN and WI, there are more interactions with black bears. Bears have a strong sense of smell – it’s always best to ensure you are taking all the steps to reduce the chances of a black bear visit:

• Ensure your trash cans are secure / cannot be accessed by a bear

• Leave trash cans inside / in your garage when possible

• Use a bear-proof trash can bears are commonly spotted near you

• Do not leave food out in the open

  • While a black bear is unlikely to approach you for your food while you’re around, never leave food out in the open or in a cooler, as it will attract black bears and they may come back looking for more

• Keep pet food or bird feeders out of reach

• Always keep pet food inside or in your garage

• Do not put out bird feeders around your residence, unless they are over 10ft high and 4ft from the nearest tree

• Thoroughly clean any grills or outdoor cooking appliances

• Collect any fallen fruit or fruit on trees around your property

• Do not put out any feed for other wildlife

• Cover any compost material and ensure it is unreachable for a black bear

How to help black bears

If you spot an injured or orphaned black bear, never approach, even if you think it may be dead.

Immediately call the DNR in this situation. You can also contact your local wildlife rehab center, to make them aware of the situation with an injured wild animal. Let them know you contacted the DNR, provide contact info and any other information you have.

Sources:

Minnesota DNR; Black Bear; 2021

Hometown Focus; Avoiding Black Bear Conflict; 2021

Humane Society; What to do about black bears; 2021

North American Bear Center; Bears and Humans; 2021

Wisconsin DNR; Black Bear Management; 2021