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Bear Spotted in NE Iowa

By Becky Ogann

Story Created: Jun 9, 2009 at 8:54 AM CST

Story Updated: Jun 9, 2009 at 10:55 AM CST

WINNESHIEK COUNTY - Two Winneshiek County residents reported spotting a bear Monday afternoon, the Sheriff's Office said.

Deputies investigating the separate reports confirmed the sightings, which happened about 3 p.m. near Castalia. The bear appeared healthy and "was acting properly as it wandered its way out of Winneshiek County and into northeastern Fayette County," according to a deputy's report.

Joe Wilkinson with the Iowa DNR tells TV9 that a confirmed bear sighting happens every year or so in eastern Iowa. Back in May of 2008, as many as 11 people called the City of North Liberty, saying they've seen a small black bear in the woods.

Wilkinson said that there are established wild bear populations in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

The Sheriff's Office reminded residents to avoid contact or alarming or frightening any wild animal.

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