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Forest Lake Police Report Increase In Bear Sightings
The department says it's seeing an uptick in bear reports, namely in residential areas.
If you live in Minnesota, you live in bear country. That’s the message from law enforcement in Forest Lake, as they report an increase in bear sightings.
The department writes that they are seeing an uptick in calls from residential areas, and it is now asking everyone to take precautions, especially when it comes to food around their homes. The department advises securing or cleaning up garbage, birdseed, dog food, and grease on outdoor grills so as to not attract the furry mammals.
A black bear runs through a Forest Lake neighborhood.
Forest Lake Police Department Facebook
If you do encounter a bear on your property, do not go near it and keep a safe distance. Officials also recommend keeping a close eye on pets, as small dogs and cats can be vulnerable.
Between 12,000 and 16,000 black bears call the North Star State home, according to the Minnesota DNR. While they typically stay in the northern and central regions of the state, bears have begun traveling farther south outside of their normal range in search of food.
If you do encounter a bear, you are asked to report it to the Minnesota DNR.
SOURCE: Bring Me The News
