Ridgeland’s Wild Neighbors

Daniel Wirth proudly displays a large black bear harvested during the 2025 411season. Photo submitted by Donnette Mickelson

By Donnette Mickelson

Did you know that we live in a perfect bear habitat? Bears need four things to survive and thrive: food, water, shelter, and space. Our rural paradise is one that bears are finding a place in which they thrive, and their population is growing. It is estimated that the concentration of bears in Northern Wisconsin is one bear for every four square miles. As the bear population increases, it is more likely that humans will come into contact with bears who consider this area their home territory. This also opens more opportunities to help control the population through hunting.

Black bears have been native to Wisconsin for thousands of years, thriving in the state’s dense forests and wetlands. Historically, their range extended throughout much of Wisconsin, but by the early 1900s, habitat loss and unregulated hunting had significantly reduced their numbers and range, largely confining them to the northern part of the state.

In the mid-20th century, as conservation awareness grew, efforts were made to protect and manage black bear populations. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) began implementing regulated hunting seasons, establishing quotas and requiring permits. These measures helped stabilize and eventually increase the bear population.

By the 1980s and 1990s, black bears began expanding their range southward, aided by improved forest management and reduced human pressure. Today, black bears can be found across much of northern and central Wisconsin, with occasional sightings in the southern counties.

Wisconsin has a bear hunting season in September and October, with different regulations depending on the method of hunting. Local Ridgeland resident Daniel Wirth had an incredible first year of hunting, bagging a huge 557-pound black bear. Daniel’s family uses the bait method of hunting, where tasty treats are put out in the woods or fields in a quiet area in the hope of luring a bear in. Black bears can pick up scents 18-20 miles away, which is over 2000% better than a human's sense of smell.  

Tracking and locating a bear is similar to hunting other animals, except that there are additional safety features to follow. Staying alert to your surroundings and recognizing bear signs are important while in their territory. Fun fact: Did you know a bear’s bite can break a bowling ball?  Bear baiting can take place from April 15 to the end of bear season in October. Also, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), you can not place more than 10 gallons of bait per site, including liquid scent. All bear hunters are encouraged to avoid the use of chocolate in bait. Chocolate is toxic and can be lethal to bears and other wildlife, especially younger bear cubs. 

Daniel’s simple recommendation to stay safe around bears is “don’t get too close.” If you are out for a walk, be aware of your surroundings and make noise to avoid startling a bear accidentally.