Black bear spotted in Orange County tree

Bear sighting on Balboa Drive near Good Homes Road

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Saturday afternoon in Orange County, not far east of Ocoee, a black bear was seen, sitting in an oak tree.

News 6 viewer Wade Lanier sent us this photo of the bear, letting us know he saw the animal in a tree on Balboa Drive about 50 feet east of Good Homes Road.

Officials with the Florida Fish and Wildlife later confirmed the bear sighting and said they are waiting for the animal to come down an leave on its own.

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FWC said there is no threat to the public and the asked residents to stay away from the area.

In general, you’re advised to never approach a bear. Contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) if you feel threatened by a bear, if you observe a sick, injured, dead or orphaned bear, or to report someone who is either harming bears or intentionally feeding them.

This is a developing story. Check back with News 6 for updates.

Note: This map depicts the general area of the bear and not necessarily its exact location.


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