Bear roaming around Kansas City metro appears to be injured, conservation department says – KMBC

A black bear seen roaming through several parts of the Kansas City metro appears to be injured, a spokesperson with the Missouri Department of Conservation said Thursday.
The bear drew widespread attention last week after being spotted outside businesses like Taco Bell and a fire station in Grandview, Missouri, and the Grass Pad in Stilwell, Kansas.
While the sightings startled some residents, many are now concerned about the bear’s well-being.
A spokesperson said it was recently seen limping near Faith Bible Church in south Kansas City.
“If the bear wasn’t injured, we would still be asking people to give it its space,” said Erin Woodiel with the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Woodiel said bears can often heal on their own with rest and minimal stress. She emphasized the importance of reporting sightings through the department’s website and reminded the public not to approach.
“If you encounter the bear, face it and slowly back away without turning your back,” Woodiel advised. “It’s really important for us to keep wildlife wild.”
She said the bear will likely move on once it realizes the area isn’t suitable for rest or recovery.
The Missouri Department of Conservation is not attempting to capture the bear but is continuing to monitor its movements.
“This bear has not approached people, acted aggressively, or caused any known damage,” Woodiel said. “There’s no reason for us to intervene and cause unnecessary stress.”
While the black bear population in Missouri is growing, sightings north of the Missouri River remain rare.
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