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Ocala
Friday, March 29, 2024

Residents spotted more black bears in Marion County

Residents have continued sharing photos of black bears spotted all across Marion County in recent weeks.

Mary Paquin-Marquez shared several photos of a bear that was grazing on the side of the road near Ocala National Forest in early October.

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Mary Paquin-Marquez saw this bear near Ocala National Forest in early October

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Karen Yvette came across this bear several weeks ago in Fort McCoy.

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Karen Yvette spotted this bear in Fort McCoy

Valerie Withrow shared a few photos of black bears roaming around.

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Valerie Withrow spotted this bear on Halloween
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This bear was seen by Valerie Withrow on October 12
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Valerie Withrow shared this photo of another bear sighting from August 26

This bear was spotted near Tay Heater’s back porch.

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This bear visited Tay Heater’s back porch

Wendy Pomahatch found this bear near a neighbor’s house in Silver Springs.

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Wendy Pomahatch spotted this bear near a neighbor’s home in Silver Springs

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Wildlife officials advise residents to secure all food, garbage, and recycling, as those items may draw the interest of a hungry bear. That even includes things like bird feeders, as bears may be attracted to seeds and grains.

Bear sightings increased dramatically, with bear watching season in full effect at Ocala National Forest, among other local parks and neighborhoods. 

If you see a bear in the area, do not intentionally feed or approach them, and make sure to always keep your distance.

Do you have any photos, videos or encounters with black bears in Ocala and Marion County? Share your videos and photos with us through our photo submission webpage. Or share through our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram social channels.