Tom and Jennifer Tung, who live on Genesee Lane in North Madison, want their neighbors to know that a black bear is nearby.
"My husband is sending you some photos of a one year old black bear in our yard this morning, actually he came up on our deck," Jennifer said Tuesday morning. "However, it is important for people on Genesee Lane to know he is in the swamp in the inner circle and might have bedded down there for the day with his mother until he comes out for the evening food search."
"People should empty the bird feeders and keep the compost covered to discourage them. In one photo, you can see him sniffing the composter. Bears breed every two years and this clumsy, curious boy (he rolled onto his back so we know) could be wandering further from his mother each day or is still sleeping with her each day," Jennifer said.
Have you seen a black bear lately? Let us know where in the comments below.
If you see a bear and want to report it to the state DEEP, you can do so by using the link on their website. The DEEP says most bears will stay away from people but the key, as Jennifer Tung says, is to make sure they cannot access food close to houses.
Black bears are generally shy and secretive and usually fearful of humans. However, if they regularly find food near houses and areas of human activity, they can lose their fear of humans. Unlike grizzly bears, black bears are seldom aggressive toward humans.
The key is to make some noise and make sure they hear it.
If you see a bear, the DEEP provides the following advice:
- Enjoy it from a distance.
- Advertise your presence by shouting and waving your arms or walk slowly away.
- Never attempt to feed or attract bears.
- Report bear sightings to the Wildlife Division on the webpage, at (860) 675-8130.
If you fear that a bear is becoming a nuisance and need immediate assistance concerning a black bear, the DEEP recommends calling their 24-hour hot-line at 860-424-3333.
