WINK Digital Team
•8/29/2026
NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — A juvenile black bear entered the Naples Zoo, prompting the evacuation of visitors and staff Saturday afternoon.
Zoo officials confirmed all visitors and staff were safely evacuated from the premises. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission arrived at the scene to develop a capture plan for the bear.
If the bear doesn't move along from the area on its own, FWC bear biologists may set a trap to capture the bear for relocation. Bears are on the move more this time of year in search of things to eat, including juvenile bears that are dispersing from their mothers' home ranges and may be seen in unexpected areas as they travel in search of a new location to settle down.
In Florida, the breeding season runs from June to August, which can also result in male bears being more active while in search of mates. FWC officials said they are also approaching the fall season, when bears may be more visible as they pass through areas while looking for food.
Although Florida black bears do not hibernate as long as they do in colder climates, bears still start consuming more calories in the fall to store up fat reserves for the winter. An adult bear needs to consume approximately 20,000 calories a day during the fall.
This seasonal need to increase fat reserves results in more activity from bears while in search of food. Florida black bears typically try to avoid people but may linger in neighborhoods if they can easily access food sources.
To prevent bears and other wildlife from associating your yard with an easy meal, FWC officials recommend removing potential food sources and attractants from around your property. These include unsecured garbage, pet food and bird seed.
Feeding bears can make them lose their natural fear of people. Bears will move on if they can't find food.
Zoo officials said they will provide updates as the situation unfolds.
Stay tuned to WINKNews.com, WINK News App, streaming, and on-air for any new developments on this story.
