HHmmmm, on the big map you mean? I did see the bear icon on the big map. Don't know about minimap, because I just disabled it. I actually disabled it all after Karak and someone on this page recommended it. The only thing I have on is the reticle and I might change that but since some of these animals are anything but easy to kill, I might keep it like this, haha. Oh and on screen controls, interaction prompt, found items readout, crafting indicator and collectible updates are on. But all else is off. Let's see how this goes.
I really commend developers when they put so many options in their games. Witcher 3 and The Division come to mind as well.
Yes, the big map. You probably looked at it while it was day and then when you arrived it was or got dark. Some animal icons disappear at night, meaning you will not see them until day. But I have not hunted bears at night yet, so I am not sure if they are there or not.