News Release

FWC investigating reported bear sighting in Orlando area

May 28, 2008
Contact: Patricia Behnke (FWC), 850-251-2130 or 850-410-5291

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) received reports early Wednesday that one black bear had been spotted near Universal Orlando, in the area of the Hard Rock Hotel, in Orlando. Security officers initially saw the bear and reported sightings to local police.

“We hope the bear will go out the same way it came in,” said Mike Orlando, a biologist with the FWC’s bear management program. “We are monitoring the situation and need the help of everyone in the vicinity.”

Orlando urges anyone who encounters the bear or any wild animal to follow these simple steps:  

• Do not approach, feed or chase the animal.
• Allow the animal room to escape.
• Immediately call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).

“Florida black bears are typically shy animals,” Orlando said. “And this one is not a threat to patrons at the park if they follow the FWC's advice.”

FWC law enforcement officers and the Universal Orlando Resort security force are working together in a cooperative effort and will continue observing and monitoring the situation throughout the day.