Black bears, once absent for over a century, are gradually making their way back into Illinois, sparking questions among residents, especially in the southern regions of the state. Understanding their current status, historical context, and how to coexist with them is becoming increasingly relevant for communities across Illinois.
Current Bear Presence in Southern Illinois
Black bears are indeed present in southern Illinois, though they are typically transient individuals rather than established breeding populations. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has confirmed sightings in various southern counties, including Saline, Pope, Williamson, Jackson, and St. Clair. These sightings are often of young males dispersing from established populations in neighboring states. The IDNR monitors their movements.
The IDNR regards black bears as a Class B protected species under Illinois law. This legal protection means that hunting, killing, or harassing black bears is prohibited unless there is an imminent threat to human safety or property. Residents are advised by the IDNR to treat these animals as wild and to avoid direct encounters.
Historical Return of Bears to Illinois
Black bears were a native species in Illinois centuries ago, but they were extirpated from the state by approximately 1870. This disappearance was primarily due to extensive habitat loss caused by agricultural expansion and unregulated hunting practices during early European settlement. For many decades, sightings of black bears in Illinois were rare, often attributed to mistaken identity or escaped captive animals.
The recent reappearance of black bears in Illinois is largely a result of natural recolonization from thriving populations in adjacent states. Bears from Missouri often migrate into southern Illinois. Similarly, bears from Wisconsin can venture into northern Illinois. These movements are often undertaken by young males seeking new territories or mates, though experts suggest females are less likely to establish breeding populations in Illinois in the near future. Southern Illinois, particularly areas like the Shawnee National Forest, offers suitable habitat for these animals.
Living in Bear Country
For residents and visitors in areas where black bears might be present, understanding how to minimize potential conflicts is important. Bears possess a keen sense of smell, capable of detecting odors from over a mile away, which draws them to available food sources. Securing food, garbage, and recycling is a primary measure to prevent attracting bears; this includes using bear-resistant containers or storing attractants indoors until collection.
Additional precautions include removing or limiting bird feeders when bears are active, avoiding leaving pet food outdoors, and thoroughly cleaning and storing grills after each use. If a bear is sighted, alerting neighbors can help ensure community awareness. If an encounter occurs, remain calm, avoid running, and give the bear ample space by backing away slowly. All bear sightings in Illinois should be reported to the IDNR to assist biologists in monitoring their movements.