Black bear used to be found throughout Minnesota but are now restricted to the northern area of the state which abounds with forests and lakes. There used to be grizzly bears in the area but they were wiped out here by the Europeans some 150 years ago. The killing of black bears is still permitted by licensed hunters from the beginning of September to the middle of October every year by quota in designated zones. Hunters are asked by the Department of Natural Resources not to kill collared or tagged bears which are identified as being part of research programmes. If you travel the roads of the area you may be lucky and spot bears by the roadside or see them crossing the roads, but generally they are in the woods. This means locating them is only really for the experienced hiker and those with bear tracking skill and knowledge. Bears generally are shy, and will disappear into the woodland and be out of sight as soon as they hear you. If you are really keen to see the bears you may be able to do this with help from the Wildlife Research Institute in Ely who run courses and field trips to study the bears or visit the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary near Orr. The Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary to the West of Pelican Lake covers an area of 360 acres, it is unfenced and the bears roam freely in and out of its boundaries. I was given “Photographer” status by the Sanctuary which allowed me into the meadow and the outskirts of the woodland area, and enabled me to obtain the many close up shots. Please be aware that the electronic versions of the book require a suitable size screen to obtain the best previewing experience. I have no connections to the Reserve or any of the Lodges in any way.