HOWELL COUNTY, Mo. – A driver fatally struck a young black bear as it crossed a road overnight in southern Missouri, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation.
The crash occurred late Wednesday evening in rural Howell County. MDC says the driver was not injured and contacted law enforcement. Authorities then alerted conservation officials.
“Animals are on the move,” said MDC via Facebook on Thursday. “And that includes crossing roads. Be on watch for wildlife crossing roadways in front of your vehicle.”
MDC estimates more than 1,000 black bears live in Missouri, most of them in the southern part of the state. Spring is a notably active season for bears as they oftentimes roam in search of food.
If you’re involved in a collision with a bear or other wildlife, MDC advises contacting your local conservation agent for guidance and avoiding direct contact with the animal.