Illinois Officials Issue Bear Warning After Sighting Near Galena

The bears aren’t just in Wisconsin anymore. After multiple sightings in northwest Illinois, including near Galena, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources wants us all to be a little more bear-aware this summer.

What to Do If You Cross Paths With a Bear

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I’ve always said: if I ever come face-to-face with a bear, I just hope I’m not alone. Not because I want to share the experience, but because I want to be with someone I can outrun.

Where the Bear Was Spotted

According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), a black bear has been spotted multiple times over the past few weeks near Mississippi Palisades State Park, and more recently, sniffing around private homes south and east of Galena.

So… that’s not far.

READ MORE: 5 Of The Best Camping Lakes In Illinois

Why Now? Bear Migration & Summer Behavior

IDNR says bear sightings in Illinois are rare but not impossible, especially since our furry neighbors up in Wisconsin and Missouri occasionally cross state lines. You know, like tourists… except they don’t stop for Culver’s.

If you live in Jo Daviess or Carroll County (or even in northwest Rockford), now’s a good time to double-check your yard for anything that might lure a bear in, like bird feeders, pet food, or that grill you forgot to clean after the Fourth.

Bear‑Wise Tips for Rockford, Jo Daviess & Carroll County Residents

The IDNR recommends:

• Never feed or approach bears (obviously)
• Lock up food, garbage, and recycling
• Clean grills and smokers like your life depends on it
• Alert your neighbors if you spot one

Spot & Report: How to Tell IDNR

And if you do spot a bear, you can report it to the IDNR here.

READ MORE: 5 Of the Best Spots for Camping in Northern Illinois This Summer