This week, many of them were checking his Facebook page for something a little different: the latest whereabouts of a wandering black bear. As the bear made its way through neighborhoods in north Shelby County, Spann’s weather updates briefly gave way to what could only be described as “bear watch.” Despite the online humor, wildlife officials say black bears are a natural part of Alabama’s wildlife population. Sightings elsewhere in the state may indicate Alabama’s black bear population is slowly growing. While wildlife officials hope Shelby continues roaming safely, the wandering bear has already left its mark on social media, giving Alabamians a few laughs and adding to James Spann’s growing reputation as the state’s unofficial bear reporter.