Black Bears Are Back In Illinois: What To Do If You See One

ILLINOIS — Catching a glimpse of an American black bear in Illinois is exciting, especially after stay-at-home orders kept most people inside and out of nature the past year. But the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is asking residents to admire the animals' shiny coats and massive size from a distance.

Once the weather starts to warm, black bears wander from state to state searching for food and other bears to mate with. While Illinois has no permanent black bear population, it's not uncommon to spot one during a camping trip or hike.

Illinois' neighboring states such as Wisconsin and Missouri have a larger black bear presence, and occasionally the creatures will make their way elsewhere if the roots, berries, fish and insects they feed on are calling them.

Last summer, a black bear nicknamed "Bruno" was an exciting visitor in Illinois as the animal made its way across the state, prompting wildlife authorities to urge people to leave the lovelorn bear alone.

If you do happen to see a black bear, the IDNR advises you:

• Give them plenty of space.
• Do not attempt to feed them.
• Do not attempt to get close to them, even to take a picture.

Fully grown black bears can weigh up to 350 pounds and stand 4 to 6 feet tall on their hind legs. As the summers get warmer and the bear population grows, wildlife experts believe more black bears will pass through Illinois.

Many black bears roamed Illinois in the late 1600s but disappeared in the 1870s due to hunting.

The Illinois Wildlife Code now protects black bears and makes it a crime to hunt, kill or harass a black bear unless there's a present and real threat to a person.

Click here for more information on what to do if you encounter a black bear.

If you think you spot something unusual, you can contact your local IDNR district wildlife biologist with questions.