Black Bear Spotted in Jennings County

November 3, 2016 Annie Nunley

black bear, Ursus americanus, resting on an old growth log in the rainforest, Olympic National Park, Olympic Peninsula, Washington

JENNINGS COUNTY, Ind. — The Black bear that has recently been seen in Southeast Indiana, was spotted in Jennings County on Sunday.

The bear is making its home in the Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources reminds residents that black bears are rarely aggressive.

They also ask that residents:

  • Remove trash cans from outside areas and store in a garage or shed.
  • Remove bird feeders (for the time being.
  • Do NOT FEED the bear–A FED BEAR IS A DEAD BEAR.
  • Clean and store your grill inside a garage or shed.
  • Do not try to follow or harass the bear.

These tips will keep the bear wild and not looking for food near your house.

These tips will also keep both you and the bear from any unwanted interactions.

If you do spot the bear:

  • Enjoy it from a distance.
  • Advertise your presence by shouting and waving your arms and backing slowly away.
  • Never attempt to feed or attract bears.

Report bear sightings to the Indiana Division of Fish & Wildlife at (812) 334-1137 or [email protected].