There is now physical proof the elusive Waite Park Bear does exist. This picture, released by the Waite Park Police Department, was taken Sunday near Quarry Park and Bel Claire Acres. There have now been at least six sightings of the black bear in the last two weeks. The bear has been spotted near Sunwood Park and the Discovery School area on County Road 137. Other reports had the bear sighting on the 3000 block of County Road 137 near Bel Claire Acres. The bear was seen taking food from bird feeders.

Department of Natural Resources officials are recommending people in the area remove their bird feeders or other food opportunities for the next several weeks.

Anyone who sees the bear is asked to call the Waite Park Police Department at (320) 251-3281 or the DNR at (320) 255-4224.