The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has about 40 black bears radio collared with bright orange collars and scientists are asking hunters to take extra precautions not to shoot a bear with a collar. Most of these bears are in research areas comprising the Chippewa National Forest, Camp Ripley Military Reservation, and near Voyageurs National Park. DNR officials are reminding hunters though that bears can travel as much as 50 miles outside of their “normal” residence, especially in the fall.
Hunters who shoot a collared bear are asked call the Minnesota DNR Wildlife Research Office in Grand Rapids at (218) 327-4146.
Bear hunting season opens of September 1.
Tom Remington
