Bear With Us, Tri-States: Black Bear Spotted Near Galena and Savana

It’s official, Tri-States: we’ve got a bear on the move. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has confirmed that a black bear has been seen by multiple landowners over the past few weeks in Jo Daviess and Carroll counties, including the area surrounding Mississippi Palisades State Park. In recent days, it’s even been spotted close to private residences south and east of Galena.

As someone who hiked the Palisades earlier this year, this news definitely made me do a double-take. That park’s rugged cliffs and winding trails are perfect for a spring escape, and now, apparently, for a wandering bear, too.

READ MORE: City of Dubuque Proposes New ‘Bear Ordinance’ After Sightings in 2024

IDNR is reminding folks that seeing a black bear in Illinois is rare, and pretty incredible if I'm honest. While it might feel alarming, their presence isn’t necessarily a threat. Bears aren’t looking for a fight; they’re usually just looking for food. That’s why IDNR is urging residents in the area to check their properties for anything that might attract a bear, including:

• Bird feeders
• Pet food left outdoors
• Garbage cans
• Greasy grills or smokers

Once a bear finds a food reward, it tends to come back. That's why prevention is the best defense.

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BearWise Tips to Keep Everyone Safe

Here’s the short version of the BearWise checklist:

• Never feed or approach a bear
• Lock up food, trash, and recycling
• Remove bird feeders if a bear has been spotted nearby
• Clean and store grills after every use
• Don’t leave pet food outside
• Let your neighbors know if you spot the bear

If you do see the bear, back away slowly and quietly, while giving it plenty of room.

With sightings on the rise across the Tri-States, it’s clear we’re sharing space with more than just deer and raccoons these days. Let’s keep our cool and keep our distance, for their safety and ours.

READ MORE: Dubuque: It’s Officially Time to Bear with the Bear

Want to see where this bear might’ve roamed? Check out this photo gallery from my hike earlier this year at Mississippi Palisades State Park below. It’s easy to understand why a bear might want to pass through.