SOMERS, N.Y. - A young black bear paid an unexpected visit to a Somers neighborhood last week, prompting a response from the Somers Police Department and a reminder for residents to stay alert.
Police said officers were called to Larch Drive on June 24 after the bear was spotted wandering through the area. The animal did not injure anyone or damage any property and eventually returned to the surrounding woods on its own.
The department shared video of the encounter on social media, adding some humor to the incident by saying the bear appeared to be "looking for a contact" before deciding to leave.
While the encounter ended peacefully, police reminded residents to take precautions if they encounter a bear.
According to guidance from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, residents should call 911 if a bear poses an immediate danger or behaves aggressively. If a bear lingers around a home or neighborhood, residents should contact the NYSDEC Region 3 Wildlife Office at 845-256-3098 or, after hours, 1-877-457-5680.
Officials also encouraged residents to make their properties less attractive to bears by securing garbage, removing bird feeders during the warmer months, keeping pet food and barbecue grease indoors, and always leaving bears with a clear escape route if encountered.
Black bear sightings become more common during the spring and summer as young bears disperse from their mothers and search for food and new territory.
Police reminded residents that the best response to a bear sighting is to observe from a safe distance and allow the animal to move on naturally.
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