Black Bear Spotted In 4 IL Counties

ILLINOIS — At least one black bear has been spotted recently in several southern Illinois counties, according to state authorities.

While bear sightings in Illinois are rare, there are established populations in Missouri and Wisconsin, authorities said, adding recent confirmed in-state sightings occurred in Saline, Pope, Williamson and Jackson counties. It's unknown if the sightings have been of one or multiple bears, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

"IDNR biologists are monitoring the bear's movement and appreciate receiving ongoing reports from the public of its whereabouts," department wildlife chief Mike Wefer said in a news release. "We're also grateful to everyone who has followed our advice to leave the bear alone and enjoy the rare privilege of observing it from a safe distance.”

People should avoid direct encounters with bears and check their property for food sources that could attract a bear if one is reported nearby, as bears can smell food more than a mile away, according to the department. Bears often investigate bird feeders, grills, garbage cans and dog food, and, once they find food, they will likely return to the source.

Those who encounter a bear should allow the animal sufficient space, back away slowly and quietly, and notify their neighbors.

If encounters persist after securing food sources, contact Chris Jacques, the department’s large carnivore program manager, at chris.jacques@illinois.gov.

To report a bear sighting, visit wildlifeillinois.org/report-sightings/report-large-carnivore-sightings.