SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has reported black bear sightings across southwest Illinois.

A wildlife biologist from the department confirmed a rare sighting on Tuesday in St. Clair County. IDNR also reported that it saw the animal a couple days later in the same area.

The bear has not come into contact with humans, the department suspects, but it is likely it damaged a beehive on private property.

Although coming across black bears in the state of Illinois is rare, IDNR cautions those to stay on alert if they ever encounter the animal.

For instance, black bears can smell food on one’s property, posing a possible concern.

“Through learned behavior, bears often investigate anything that may yield a food reward, such as bird feeders, barbeque grills, garbage cans, and dog food. Once a bear finds a food source, they will likely return, so prevention is key,” IDNR wrote.

During the summer, these bears are likely to roam frequently in search of a mate or for food.

To learn more about black bears, visit here.