black bears are present in Plymouth County, Massachusetts.
A few bears have been sighted in the area recently, including one on the South Shore that has been present for a few years. Massachusetts wildlife officials say reports that bears are increasingly venturing into residential areas as they search for food.
Recent Bear Sightings over the years
A bear has been observed in the greater Plymouth area for a few years.
Another bear, dubbed Pumpkin, was seen across the South Shore last year but was later killed by a hunter.
Reports of bears in various towns, including Marion, Plymouth, and Carver, have surfaced recently.
A bear was even struck by a car on Route 3 in Plymouth, though its whereabouts after the incident are unknown.
What to Do If You Encounter a Bear:
- Don’t approach, make noise, or try to feed it: Bears are usually just passing through, and getting too close can scare them into a defensive reaction.
- If you encounter a bear, stay calm: Back away slowly, and talk to the bear in a calm voice.
- Secure your food sources: Remove bird feeders, secure trash and recycling, and clean grills after use.
- Protect your pets: Bring pets indoors, especially at night, and avoid leaving pet food outside.
- Consider electric fencing: Electric fences are effective in protecting chicken coops and beehives.
Important Notes:
Black bears are generally not aggressive unless they feel threatened or are protecting their young.
MassWildlife recommends that residents practice good “bear-friendly” habits to minimize negative interactions.
If you see a bear, report it to MassWildlife or your local police department.
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