Bear sightings in Wisconsin growing - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

WAUSAU (WKOW) -- Bear sightings continue to become more common in central Wisconsin according the Department of Natural Resources.

The northern third of Wisconsin continues to provide the greatest habitat for bears, but now according to the DNR, bear sightings are growing in the southern sections of the state.

"They're getting to be more common in some central counties in the state," said Kevin Wallenfang from the DNR. "And every so often we'll see one in the far southern part of the state. Usually they'll follow the Wisconsin River corridor down."

DNR population estimates suggest around 25,000 bears roam the state, up from the 15,000 Wallenfang says the department estimates roamed in the late 1990s.

The DNR says bears usually come into contact with people because they are looking for food. They suggest keeping garbage cans closed tight or indoors, keeping bird feeders out of reach, and not leaving items like pet food outside at night.