I've never seen a Black Bear in the wild.

Credit: bill pennell via unsplash
Credit: bill pennell via unsplash
loading...

But I do know that Michigan has Black Bears in the Upper Peninsula and in parts of the Lower Peninsula.

attachment-Black-Bear
loading...

But what are the chances of us seeing a wild Black Bear in Grand Rapids?

With The Rise In Black Bears In Michigan Could We See Them In Grand Rapids Soon?

Credit: Canva
Credit: Canva
loading...

Cody Norton who is with the Michigan Department of Natural Resource's (DNR) told Wood TV that the Black Bear population in Michigan is increasing.

Lynn_Bystrom
Lynn_Bystrom
loading...

“Right now, our estimate is that (the black bear population in the Lower Peninsula) has increased almost 70% since 2012, Not only has the abundance increased, but the distribution has increased, as well. We’ve got bears expanding into areas where there have not been bears in the recent past.”

 

Lynn_Bystrom/ThinkStock/GettyStock
Lynn_Bystrom/ThinkStock/GettyStock
loading...

How Many Black Bears Are In Michigan?

As of 2021, the DNR estimates there are approximately 10,650 black bears in the Upper Peninsula and 2,200 in the Lower Peninsula.

Credit: Canva
Credit: Canva
loading...

Are Black Bears Dangerous To Humans?

The Michigan (DNR) says that Black bears are shy, elusive animals, usually flee when encountered, and are generally not a threat to humans.

Black Bear
Alexandre Brondino/Unsplash
loading...

 

However, bears are also large and powerful animals that have been known to injure and even kill humans if they feel threatened.

Credit: Canva
Credit: Canva
loading...

Will We See Black Bears Anytime Soon In Grand Rapids?

The DNR says that they believe the Black Bear population in the Lower Peninsula has started to slow down, but want a few more years worth of data to be sure.

10 Animals You Can’t Own As Pets In Michigan

Some people really want to have an exotic pet in their home, but very rarely is it a good idea. And if you are looking to add a wild animal to your family, check out this list of animals you can not own as pets in Michigan.

This Michigan Mansion Is An Outdoorsman's Dream

This house is for sale in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, and could be yours if you have $2,250,000.

What Did Michigan’s License Plates Look Like The Year You Were Born?

Michigan is home to so much motor vehicle history. Let's take a look back in time to see some of the cool and interesting Michigan license plates of the past.

More From Mix 95.7