BRACEVILLE TWP., Ohio - A long-time hunter in Braceville said he was surprised to discover a black bear on his trail camera on Sunday, marking the first time in over two decades that he had encountered the species in the area.

Mark Daisley, who sent the photo to WFMJ News, stated that he has hunted the same location for more than 20 years without any previous indication of black bear activity. The image, captured early Sunday morning, shows a large black bear on what appears to be a wooded trail.

"I've hunted this place for over 20 years and never saw or had a black bear on camera until this morning," Daisley wrote in an email.

While black bears are native to Ohio, their populations are concentrated in the eastern and southern parts of the state. Sightings in areas like Braceville, located in Trumbull County, are less common but not unheard of, as bears expand their range.

Wildlife officials often advise residents to secure food sources and dispose of garbage properly to avoid attracting bears to residential areas.