ST PAUL, Minn — Wildlife biologists in Minnesota are asking the public to keep an eye out for elk, bears, and other rare species.
Elk were "functionally extirpated" by the early 1900s due to overharvest, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The species is returning, but herds only range in the northwest part of the state.
Biologists are interested in reports of elk outside their known range, the DNR says. You can report sightings of elk so biologists can better understand elk movement in Minnesota.
Officials are also asking the public to report bear sightings, as the black bear range has been slowly expanding south and west.
As far as rare species go, there are numerous species of snakes, mammals, and an amphibian the DNR wants people to report when seen. The list of species as well as how to report them can be found here.
"While the Minnesota Biological Survey regularly searches for many of these species, more eyes are always welcome," the DNR said on social media.
Hunters are also encouraged to report daily observations of animals seen to "help broaden our knowledge about other animals you see in the field."
