Good News from Missouri for Black Bears

Black Bears have become abundant enough in Missouri to warrant a managed hunting season, this is good news. Scientific management fostered an environment for black bears to naturally repopulate from dispersing bears from neighboring states, chiefly Arkansas.

A hunting season means success as well as greater support and scrutiny for the species. In the US, there is a bit of, "if it pays, it stays" truth. Games species have been the recovery success stories: wild turkey, whitetail deer, Canada geese, etcetera. 

With a scientifically managed hunting season, I predict black bears will further expand their ranges and increase their numbers. My historical example would be Wisconsin following the 1983 season.

An expanding range and population will put more bears closer to agreeable habitat in Iowa. That is a good thing.