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(Iowa) -- A black bear sighting was recently reported in northeast Iowa, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources says we could see more sightings over the next several weeks.
The DNR says the northeastern part of the state is most likely to see bears crossing over into Iowa. Neighboring Minnesota is home to roughly 15,000 black bears, while Wisconsin has a black bear population of around 25,000. The DNR says while no black bears are known to be living in Iowa, bears will visit the state as young male black bears venture out during mating season.
State Furbearer and Wetland Biologist with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Vince Evelsizer says, "there's a pretty decent bear population not too far away, and there can be nuisance issues from time to time, but taking away food attractants is one of the biggest things Iowans can do if there's a bear in the area."
The Iowa DNR says Pikes Peak State Park has installed several bear-proof trash cans due to its location being in range of bears venturing out on their own. The state typically sees two or three bears wander through the state each year. The DNR says while bear sightings in northeast Iowa are most common, Missouri's black bear population is growing, which could lead eventually to sightings in southern Iowa.