Bear Spotted in Multiple Locations Roaming Around Orlando Neighborhoods

Residents are urged not to approach the bear.

Orlando, Florida has one new resident, but this one's a little bit different. For starters, it's a black bear, and it's getting a little too close for comfort. 

The city's police department made a social media announcement after receiving multiple calls about the curious creature. But--as of just over one day after their first announcement was made--the furry suspect is still at-large. 

What a beautiful bear! Even though the animal is taking up residence in a tree at the time these photos were taken, we can see why everyone is talking. That's no small animal!

According to WFTV, the bear was first spotted in Lake Ivanhoe Park. Later, it was seen in a tree near Yale Street and Formosa Avenue in College Park. In an updated Tweet, the Orlando Police Department asked that everyone except residents stay away from the area for the safety of both the bear and the people nearby. 

They also mentioned that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been notified about the ursine taking residence in neighborhoods. They are currently 'on scene' but haven't captured or relocated the curious bear. 

The most recent update from the Orlando Police Department reads, "As of this morning 4/25, the bear is still roaming the area of College Park. Please do not approach. [FFWC] is working to safely retrieve the bear." 

The conservation organization explains on their website that the Florida black bear is the only species of bear found in the sunshine state. They're not very common or very rare to find in the Orlando area, though an animal exploring a neighborhood isn't common to see. 

We just hope they're able to safely move the bear!

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