Black Bear Spotted in Little Rock Neighborhood in Arkansas

Before Arkansas was referred to as the Natural State, Arkansas was known as the Bear State in the early days. Maybe we should go back to that slogan since a black bear was recently spotted this week on the streets of Little Rock.

Black Bear

Imagine going out to your mailbox only to come face to face with a black bear, that could become a dangerous situation real quick. According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission a black bear was spotted in a residential neighborhood early Monday on Rodney Parham Road and then again on Tuesday morning near Cantrell Road adjacent to the Arkansas River.

Officials say it's not uncommon this time of the year for young male bears to be looking for a new home, and according to a report from KATV, this is most likely the case. Black Bears are common in the state but the reoccurrence of seeing one in the city has been going on for several years now.

The American black bear is the only bear species that lives in the state and is the smallest bear in the United States. Most black bears in Arkansas are found in the Ozark Highlands area, the Ouachita National Forest, and the lower White River basin.

Stay Safe

Wildlife officials recommend to stay safe do not approach the bear or it will likely feel threatened and could attack you. You may think the bears look cute and try to feed one but it's not recommended because they could become habitual and not afraid of people, remember they are wild animals.

Do not leave food in your backyard or wildlife feeders they can attract bears along with other critters. If you happen to spot a black bear in your residential neighborhood or roaming around on a city street call 501- 268-3531 to report its location.