ILLINOIS (KWQC) – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says that a bear has been seen by several landowners.
According to the Illinois DNR, a black bear was seen over the past several weeks in the area of Mississippi Palisades State Park and more recently in private land south and east of Galena.
The IDNR said that while seeing bears might be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and should be treated as such.
Residents are encouraged to avoid direct encounters with the bear and to check their property for food sources that may attract it, the IDNR said.
The IDNR said human conflicts with bears can be prevented by following the BearWise checklist:
- Never feed or approach bears
- Secure food, garbage, and recycling
- Remove bird feeders where bears are active
- Avoid leaving pet food outdoors
- Thoroughly clean and store grills and smokers after each use
- Alert neighbors to bear activity
People who encounter the bear should give it space while backing away slowly and quietly, the IDNR said.
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