Black Bear Spotted In Detroit Area, Police Warn Residents To Keep Distance

FLAT ROCK, MI — Police in one metro Detroit city are warning residents to be on alert after a black bear was recently spotted outside a home, according to police.

The bear was seen in the area of Woodruff Road between Olmstead and Interstate 75 in Flat Rock, according to police.

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Police said a Blink security camera caught the bear moving north through a residential yard in the area.

There were no reports of any aggressive behavior or property damage in the area.

Police did not release any photos or footage of the bear but noted the sighting is real and not AI-generated.

Police said they are working closely with Michigan wildlife officials who reminded residents to:

• Secure garbage cans and avoid leaving pet food or bird seed outdoors.
• Keep pets indoors or under close supervision, especially at night.
• Refrain from approaching or attempting to feed the animal.
• If you see a bear, stay indoors and contact your local police department or the DNR's RAP line at (800) 292-7800.

Wildlife officials said last year that black bears are pushing farther south into Michigan's lower peninsula. They stressed residents must learn to live peacefully alongside them, as they have lived in the area for millions of years. That begins with not letting the bears get too comfortable near humans.

Black bears, which generally weigh between 100 and 500 pounds, typically avoid people whenever possible, but they are wild animals and may defend themselves when surprised or feeling threatened, according to BearWise.

If a black bear approaches you, DO NOT RUN. Instead:

• Stand your ground.
• Back away only when the bear stops its approach.
• Make yourself look bigger by raising your arms and jacket, and/or standing on a rock or stump.
• Yell “HEY BEAR!” loudly.
• Always provide a clear, unobstructed escape route for the bear.

If a black bear makes contact with you:

• Do not play dead (that’s for a grizzly bear).
• Fight back with anything at hand (knife, sticks, rocks, binoculars, backpack or by kicking).

Related — Bears Pushing Farther South In MI: Here’s How We Can Coexist