In early 1992, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the Louisiana black bear as threatened under provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. The federal listing provides for severe penalties, both civil and criminal, for harming a bear in Louisiana, Mississippi, or East Texas. Avoiding Conflicts Almost all conflicts between bears and humans occur as a result of the animals' search for food. Under no circumstances should anyone knowingly feed a bear. Bears will lose their instinctive fear of humans quite easily and often become nuisances as a result.
Problems vary from the simple presence of a bear, perceived as dangerous, to actual property damage.
Nuisance activities are generally more common in years when there is a shortage of natural foods. An amazingly acute sense of smell enables the bear to find other sources of nourishment, often garbage or pet foods. The best way to avoid trouble with bears is to avoid activities that create problem situations. Preventive measures, such as proper disposal of garbage, should be initiated first. If bears are in the area, efforts should be made to secure all garbage containers or deposit all edible wastes in separate containers that are stored where bears cannot gain access.