DNR continues to track bear in northern Indiana

LAPORTE COUNTY, Ind. (WISH) — Department of Natural Resources officials in Indiana and Michigan are working together to track a Michigan black bear that walked into Indiana last week.

Wildlife biologists now believe the bear has headed west.

Sightings were reported near Michigan City on Monday and paw prints were found near Springville, Indiana.

“Definitely a bear track. No doubt. And it continues to follow the predicted path based on the terrain,” said Budd Veverka, DNR wildlife biologist.

Michigan DNR officials tracked the young male bear into St. Joseph County last week.

A scat pile left in a driveway north of South Bend confirmed the presence of a wild bear in Indiana for the first time since 1871.

Indiana DNR is encouraging citizens to report sightings of the bear at 812-334-1137 or at dfwinput@dnr.in.gov. Pictures and videos may also be sent to that email address.