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

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

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

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?

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.

“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.”

 

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.

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.

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

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.