{KXLG – Watertown, SD} Residents south of Watertown experienced an unusual wildlife encounter this weekend with a confirmed sighting of a black bear.

According to Nick Rossman, Regional Wildlife Manager for the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP), “Yes, this weekend the sighting of a black bear was reported to GFP staff South of Watertown, a few miles between Foley Road and Hwy 81. The sighting was confirmed by both photo submissions, but also by a department employee as well It appeared to be a juvenile bear that eventually headed East across HWY 81 before disappearing into a mature shelterbelt.”

Rossman further explained the rarity of such sightings in the area, stating, “Black bears in our area are not common in northeast South Dakota, but occasionally we have seen similar juvenile-aged bears wander through the area. The closest wild black bear population is along the northern border between North Dakota and Minnesota.”

The GFP advises residents in the area to be aware of their surroundings, but also emphasizes that these transient bears typically move on without incident. While no specific safety recommendations were included in Rossman’s statement, it’s always wise to exercise caution and maintain a respectful distance from any wild animals.