Black bear sighting at NAS Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Naval Air Station Jacksonville is urging everyone on base to be vigilant, after a black bear was sighted very early Thursday morning.

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The base says there was a credible sighting on the main side of the base, first near the barracks and then into the woods between NCIS and the medical clinic.

NAS Jax police estimate the bear to be between 100 and 200 pounds.

Base environmental assets are trying to locate the bear and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has also been notified.

In the meantime, NAS Jax wants anyone on base to be aware of their surroundings, especially around wooded areas.  If you see the bear, you should keep a distance of at least 50 yards and never feed it. You’re asked to also ensure garbage and food are not stored anywhere a bear could access, and grills should be kept clean and stored.

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If you have any information about the location of this bear or any others in residential or commercial areas, you should contact FWC at 888-404-3922.

Cox Media Group