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BEL ALTON, Md. — A black bear spotted late Friday night, July 25, 2025, near Dove Drive in the Bel Alton Estates neighborhood is likely the same bear recently seen in neighboring St. Mary’s County, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
The sighting occurred around 9:30 p.m. near the Charles County Fairgrounds. A resident posted a photo on social media showing a dark figure resembling a bear near the edge of the woods. DNR wildlife staff confirmed receiving reports and photos submitted by the public.
“In recent history, it is not common to see bears in Southern Maryland,” a DNR spokesperson said. “However, this is not the first time a bear has been documented there, and we have documented multiple bears in Prince George’s County over the past few years.”
DNR said it believes the same animal seen in St. Mary’s County, where a bear knocked over a backyard bird feeder, is now moving through Charles County.
“We believe the bear documented in St. Mary’s County is the same bear that residents are seeing in Charles County,” the spokesperson said.
Officials said the bear has not shown any concerning behavior so far.
“Currently, the bear is not exhibiting any behaviors that the DNR deems concerning from a public safety standpoint, as the bear has a healthy fear of humans and has fled anytime it has encountered a human,” the spokesperson said. “It is moving through the area with relatively few reports.”
DNR said it will only consider intervention if there is a risk to the public or the bear itself.
“DNR will consider intervention if the bear’s presence becomes a public safety concern or if DNR believes the bear’s safety is at risk.”
As sightings continue, residents are encouraged to remove food attractants such as trash, pet food, bird feeders, unclean grills, and wildlife feed.
“Trash should be kept in a building until pickup day,” the spokesperson said. “Regarding bird feeders, simply bringing them in at night will not deter a bear. The bear will simply visit the feeder during the day.”
DNR has not issued a formal advisory in this case but encourages residents to remain aware and informed. More information about bear safety is available at dnr.maryland.gov.
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