ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO – Wildlife officials are continuing their search for a bear spotted in several locations across the Albuquerque area.
According to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, the bear was first seen late Wednesday night near Uva Road in the Corrales area. Additional sightings were reported early Thursday, including near the parking lot of Cibola High School and at Paradise Hills Golf Course.
Officials say officers had visual contact with the bear around 3 a.m. at the golf course and attempted to capture it, but those efforts were unsuccessful. Crews continued searching throughout the day Thursday, but as of Thursday evening, the bear had not been located.
“It’s probably too early to tell where it might have come from,” said Department spokesperson Darren Vaughan, noting the bear’s movements could provide clues if it is located.
Despite claims circulating on social media, authorities say the bear has not been captured.
The sightings drew attention from nearby residents and golfers, some of whom described the encounter as unusual, while others said it served as a reminder to stay aware in outdoor spaces.
Wildlife officials say bears occasionally move into metro areas. A similar incident in August 2025 involved a bear in Rio Rancho that was eventually captured and relocated after being spotted near homes.
The search for the current bear remains ongoing as officials work to safely locate and remove it from the area.
