Madison, WI – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking residents across the state to keep an eye out for black bear dens this winter — and to report them if found.
According to the DNR, citizen reports will help wildlife researchers track bear populations and monitor denning habits as part of a multi-year study aimed at improving population estimates and habitat understanding.
If a den is spotted, officials urge residents to remain at least 30 yards away — roughly the length of a basketball court — and to avoid disturbing the bear. People are encouraged to drop a pin on their smartphone’s map app to log the exact location and, if possible, take photos showing the den’s placement on the landscape.
Residents can then report findings through the DNR’s online form at [SurveyMonkey link provided by DNR]. Safety remains the top priority, and anyone who locates a den is reminded to leave the area quietly and avoid interaction with wildlife.
The agency says that community participation is vital for collecting accurate data, especially during Wisconsin’s long winter season when bears are denning across forested regions.
“This kind of public help makes our research possible,” the DNR stated in its post.
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This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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