Illinois does not have an established black bear population, a fact that often surprises many residents. While the state does not support a breeding community, occasional sightings occur. These instances typically involve transient bears wandering into Illinois from neighboring states.
Current Bear Presence in Illinois
Illinois has no resident black bear populations; observed bears are individuals dispersing from established populations in adjacent areas, primarily Missouri and Wisconsin. Missouri’s population is estimated at 900 to 1,000 individuals and is steadily growing, while Wisconsin has approximately 24,000 bears. These transient visitors are most often young males, known to travel considerable distances, sometimes over 100 miles, in search of new territories. Female bears tend to remain much closer to their birth ranges, typically venturing no more than 10 miles.
Confirmed sightings are rare but have occurred across various counties. For instance, a bear was confirmed in Bureau County in 2008, and another traveled through northern counties in 2009 and 2014. More recently, a black bear was confirmed in Johnson County in 2019, and another traversed northern counties in 2020. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) continuously monitors these movements. These sightings do not indicate a re-established breeding population within Illinois.
Historical Context and Native Status
Black bears were once a common native species throughout much of Illinois. By the mid-19th century, around 1870, they were extirpated from the state. This disappearance was largely due to extensive habitat loss from agriculture and unregulated hunting, driven by both fear and the economic value of bear products.
Illinois currently has no formal reintroduction programs for black bears. Conservation experts anticipate a breeding population could eventually establish itself, but this is considered a long-term prospect, contingent on female bears migrating into the state. Southern Illinois, particularly areas like the Shawnee National Forest, offers suitable habitat. Black bears have been protected under the Illinois Wildlife Code since 2015, making it unlawful to hunt, kill, or harass them unless there is an immediate threat to a person or property.
Living Alongside Bears
Encountering a black bear in Illinois is infrequent, but knowing how to respond is useful. If a bear is sighted, it is important to remain calm and avoid running. Make noise to ensure the bear is aware of your presence and avoid surprising it. Do not approach the bear.
If the bear notices you, stand your ground, appear as large as possible, and slowly back away. If an indoor location or vehicle is nearby, seeking shelter is advisable. In the rare event of an attack, fighting back is recommended rather than playing dead.
Report all bear sightings to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Providing documentation, such as photographs or tracks, greatly assists IDNR monitoring efforts. To minimize attracting bears, even in areas where they are rare, secure food sources, garbage, and recycling containers. Remove or limit bird feeders when bears are active, avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and thoroughly clean and store grills after use. Bears have an acute sense of smell and are likely to return once they discover a food source, making proactive prevention crucial.