Bear Season Begins In MN: Recent Sightings In Twin Cities

MINNESOTA — Twin Cities residents reported a spike in bear sightings in May, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The big lugs have arisen from their torpor, and residents have begun filing sighting reports with the state.

Some wildlife experts believe that a shift in climate and shortening winters set black bears' internal alarm clocks earlier, perhaps before adequate food sources are available. If they awaken before their table is set for them in the wild, it's a fair bet they will be making their way to yours.

Indeed, bear sightings are becoming more common in the Twin Cities metro area, as Minnesota’s black bear range has been slowly expanding south.

Black bears usually try to avoid people. However, if the bear appears to be aggressive or agitated, call 911.

In general, conservation authorities say the best course of action is to avoid the bear, report it to the DNR, and allow it to leave the area naturally.

Bear sightings outside of their primary northern forest range can be reported on an interactive map-based application on the Minnesota DNR website.

Check out some of the most recent reported bear sightings in the metro below: