June 11, 201511 yr I wonder if increased sightings are due to increased numbers (Good!) or because the are not afraid of humans and are becoming bolder around humans (Not Good).
June 11, 201511 yr Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Black Bears Some interesting info in that link Once abundant throughout the United States, the historic range of the American black bear (Ursus americanus) was significantly reduced by habitat loss and fragmentation. In Kentucky, historical accounts indicate that bears were essentially eliminated by the early 1900s. Reasons for that decline included wholesale logging of mature hardwood forests, unregulated hunting and a lack of protected areas. Currently, black bears are the most abundant and widespread of all eight bear species in the world. In Kentucky, the return of black bears over the last 20 years is proving to be a true wildlife success story. Contrary to some beliefs, however, today’s growing population is not the result of a “restocking” effort. As oak forests matured after extensive logging efforts of the early 1900s, bears recolonized these habitats from our neighboring states of West Virginia, Virginia and Tennessee. Vast portions of Kentucky region that were cleared for timber are once again mature hardwood forests. Consequently, bears that filtered into Kentucky from our Southern Appalachian neighbors had access to large, remote tracts of quality forest habitat. As a result, Kentucky is now home to a resident bear population that is experiencing considerable increases in both numbers and range.
June 11, 201511 yr My son lives near Wekiva Springs State Park. He has problems with bears all of the time. Mrs. S was taking our granddaughter to school one day when one ran out in front of them on Wekiva Springs Road. It pulled itself up and over a privacy fence and disappeared in somebody's back yard.
June 11, 201511 yr They are becoming more prevalent in southern KY each year...this was taken not far from Somerset last year. Did this guy play for Pulaski Co last year. lol.
June 13, 201511 yr Not the typical look but the interior is sweet. I agree, it's not cabiny looking at all...but with a pool table, large hot tub, double shower, sauna, double bath tub and one of the best views available we've always liked it. That drive way is beyond 45degree incline though and a real booger to get up in snow or when wet and leaf covered or for that matter if there is a heavy frost.
June 14, 201511 yr If you see this bear, run, run quickly. [ATTACH=CONFIG]50915[/ATTACH] Just throw this one some printer parts and you'll be fine.
June 14, 201511 yr There have been several bear sighting in and around Greenup County in the last few weeks. Some have been "out in the country", but at least one has been seen in the Russell/Raceland area numerous times. Granted, I remember seeing bear sign as a kid, before the IP was built, (my family's farm borders it), but this is the first time I remember confirmed sightings.
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