FWC warns Lee and Collier residents as bear mating season drives more neighborhood sightings

Bear sightings are increasing across Florida, particularly in Lee and Collier counties, as bear mating season unfolds.

Michael Orlando, the bear program expert for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), said, "Right now, we're seeing bears move around throughout the entire state in Lee and Collier County in particular."

On Wednesday morning, a bear was spotted trying to climb a wall on Unice Avenue in Lehigh Acres. Another bear was seen last week in a Fort Myers neighborhood.

Last month, a bear charged at a woman in Collier County, underscoring the need for vigilance during this active period.

Orlando explained the types of calls FWC has been receiving. "Whether it's I just saw a bear or, hey, a bear has gotten into my garbage or something along those lines, and we'll provide technical assistance most of the time on how to keep that stuff up. And if it gets serious enough, you know, we might actually bring out a trap and trap and relocate the bear," he said.

Orlando also highlighted the positive aspects of bear activity. "I mean, you got bears on the landscape. Something good is happening. You got good habitat out there. So take a second. Appreciate that," he said.

Residents who see a bear in their neighborhood are encouraged to contact FWC for assistance.