Recently there have been numerous sightings of a Black Bear within the City limits of Osage Beach. MDC has provided guidelines for Black Bear response.
Black Bears are native to Missouri. Historically, Black Bears were abundant in the state, but habitat loss and unregulated hunting pressure led to their near extinction by the early 1900's. The population started to rebound in the late 1900's and with the expanding bear population, Missourians will need to adapt to living in "Bear Country".
It is not uncommon for bears to show up in developed areas and more sightings are occurring, even in central Missouri, as bears disperse. Guidelines have been developed by the Missouri Department of Conservation to assist in effectively addressing Black Bear sightings or incidents.
First and foremost...LEAVE THE BEAR ALONE AND GIVE IT SPACE TO LEAVE ON ITS OWN! Bears are rarely aggressive and usually will not approach people. If a bear stands on its hind legs, it is attempting to see or smell. This is not a threatening behavior.
Feeding bears, either by purposely leaving food out or by not removing attractants, is bad for bears and for people. Remember, a fed bear is a dead bear.
If you encounter a Black Bear, contact the Osage Beach Police Department, remain in a safe place away from the bear and stay calm.