Increased Black Bear Sightings Raise Safety Concerns in Collier County, Florida
Increased Black Bear Sightings Raise Safety Concerns in Collier County, Florida
US · Published Jun 19, 2026
Residents in The Shores at Berkshire community in Collier County, Florida, are reporting a rise in black bear sightings, with some encounters becoming alarmingly close.
A recent incident involved a mother bear charging at a woman who was filming the animal near her home.

Why It's Important?

The increased bear activity poses risks to residents, particularly children and individuals with limited mobility. One resident expressed concern for his two young children, one of whom has autism, as the bears have been seen just feet from their home. Another resident, who uses a walker, highlighted the difficulty of escaping quickly in case of an encounter. The proximity of the bears to residential areas raises the likelihood of dangerous interactions, especially if the animals feel threatened or are startled.

Related News