A few weeks back, the Missouri Department of Conservation announce a black bear population study to determine numbers per county, habitat and possible public education needed.

Black Bear photo courtesy of MDC

The Current Local, our exchange from Van Buren, reported in its May 19 issue that an approximately 250 pound black bear was killed on May 6, when struck about 200 yards east of the Hwy. 21-34 junction east of town.

The bear was in the westbound lanes when struck first by Angie White of Van Buren, and then struck again by a second and possibly more vehicles. White’s car was extensively damaged.

In the past, black bears in the lower Ozarks were assumed to have migrated from Arkansas, however genetic studies by the department have revealed that some bears may be natives to the state.