MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. (AP) _ State wildlife biologists believe the first wild black bear confirmed in Indiana since the 1870s is continuing to wander around the state line with Michigan.

The Department of Natural Resources said Monday evidence found over the weekend shows that the bear traveled from northern Indiana's St. Joseph County into a rural area of neighboring LaPorte County near Michigan City. 

Biologists believe the young male bear walked into the area from Michigan, which has an estimated black bear population topping 15,000.

Black bears are listed as an exotic mammal and are protected under Indiana law. Wildlife officials say black bears are typically shy and tend to avoid humans.