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Bear seen in Illinois likely swam across Ohio River from Kentucky, wildlife official says

It was after a series

"The black bears seen in areas that don’t have established bear populations are not considered dangerous."

July, 2024 - July, 2024

Southern Illinois experienced its first black bear sightings across four counties this summer, leading to widespread curiosity and careful monitoring by residents and officials. One bear, believed to have swum across the Ohio River from Kentucky, was spotted multiple times including in Pope, Saline, and Williamson counties. Another made it's way into west Belleville, hung a right at Collinsville, crossed O'Fallon, then disappeared.

Wildlife officials stress that these wandering black bears can be dangerous and are best left undisturbed.

Public advisories focus on safety measures like securing food sources and avoiding direct interactions with the animals. The sightings are seen by some as a unique opportunity to witness wildlife, given that Illinois lacks an established bear population.