The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking the public for help in reporting bear dens, as den survey season is in full swing, and the DNR’s bear research team is still searching for publicly reported den locations.
If someone is outdoors and hears a frequent squeaking, humming or sucking sound, they should take note because it could be denning cubs.
Den location reports play a vital role in the data collection efforts for the ongoing Black Bear Litter and Diet Survey, which aims to improve the accuracy of state population models and inform bear management decisions across the state.
If someone suspects the location of an active den, and would like to report it to the DNR, they should maintain a safe distance of at least 30 yards and then follow these steps:
• Take note of surroundings. Are there any visible tracks, scratch marks on trees, scat or damaged vegetation nearby? Have there been recent bear sightings in the area? Are there any noises coming from the den?
• Drop a pin in a phone to record the GPS coordinates of the location. If this is not possible, try to remember a detailed description of where the den is located on the property in question. If the phone has a camera, take a photo where the den is visible.
• Learn more about the study, and submit den locations, reporting them online.
Note that due to staffing capacity, the bear research team may not be able to contact people about their reports; reports with information suggesting the den is active will be prioritized to meet research study requirements.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here