A quiet Cottage Grove street got an unexpected visitor on Friday when a black bear ambled through a neighborhood near the 9400 block of Jeffery Avenue, catching the eye of startled residents and the city's public-safety team. Neighbors snapped photos as the bear moved near homes, while officials urged families to keep small children and pets close until the animal moved on.
Cottage Grove Public Safety said it fielded several calls about the bear and shared a photo on its Facebook page, advising people to stay back and let the animal pass through, according to FOX 9. "Bears typically move along on their own," the department wrote, adding that crews expected the visitor to "return to a more natural area soon." Residents were told to contact authorities if the bear showed aggressive behavior or entered an occupied yard or building.
What officials recommend
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources notes that black bears are usually not aggressive and that attacks are rare, but it still urges basic precautions: do not feed or approach wildlife, secure garbage, take down bird feeders and keep grills clean, per the Minnesota DNR. If you run into a bear, the agency says not to run away; instead, back off slowly and give the animal room to leave. The DNR also asks residents to log bear sightings through its online form so staff can track where the animals are traveling.
Why suburban sightings are happening
Wildlife experts say bear sightings in Twin Cities suburbs have become more common in the spring as animals leave their dens and follow river corridors and park reserves, according to CBS Minnesota. The DNR's Bear Project leader told CBS that bears have been seen in areas such as Elm Creek and across Washington County, prompting park managers to put up warning signs. Seasonal movements, food sources and expanding bear ranges all help explain why a bear occasionally strolls into a metro neighborhood.
Where to report a sighting
Officials say anyone who sees a bear that poses an immediate threat should call 911. For non‑emergency sightings, residents are asked to report details through the Minnesota DNR's online system and to notify Cottage Grove Public Safety using the city's non‑emergency numbers, according to the DNR and the City of Cottage Grove Public Safety. Bringing pets inside, removing bird feeders and locking down garbage can make it less likely the bear will return. While most bears eventually wander off without causing trouble, officials say neighbors should stay alert as long as one is in the area.
