NORTHFIELD, Minn. – The Minnesota DNR says the state’s bear population is growing. Between 12,000 and 16,000 black bears live in Minnesota. For the past 20 years, the population has been growing and expanding further south and west.
Among the most recent reported black bear sightings was in a Northfield neighborhood. It was spotted twice overnight Friday digging through garbage cans and bird feeders.
John Moriarty, a DNR Wildlife Manager, said just five years ago it was very rare to see a bear in that part of the state.
He said bears are not out stalking people or pets. He said in many cases, someone left a greasy grill or is feeding their dog outside.
Moriarty also said more people have home security cameras that capture them passing through.
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