UpdatedThu, May 6, 2021 at 7:54 pm CT Replies(65) American black bears will become more common in Illinois, wildlife experts believe. (Shutterstock) ILLINOIS — Catching a glimpse of an American black bear in Illinois is exciting, especially after stay-at-home orders kept most people inside and out of nature the past year. But the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is asking residents to admire the animals' shiny coats and massive size from a distance. Once the weather starts to warm, black bears wander from state to state searching for food and other bears to mate with. While Illinois has no permanent black bear population, it's not uncommon to spot one during a camping trip or hike.