Be Mindful of Black Bears
June 2009
In light of recent black bear sightings in and around East Rockhill Township, here are some tips
taken from a press release sent by the Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy on Thursday, July 3, 2008.
To discourage visits from hungry bears:
- Keep trash can & dumpster lids secure
- Feed pets indoors
- Stop feeding the birds during the early summer months
- Keep fruit & veggie clippings out of your compost
- Clean your barbecue grill
If you do see a bear:
- Do not feed the bear. The bear may become agitated once the food is gone or removed. Feeding will also create a firm connection with humans or your location as a food source and the bear will likely return looking for another meal. Also, it is illegal to feed bears in Pennsylvania.
- Stay calm and keep your distance. If you are hiking or “on the bear’s turf” slowly back away while making some noise. You don’t want to startle the bear, just let it know you are there.
- Do not turn away from the bear or run away. Remain facing the bear as you back away but do not make direct eye contact. Eye contact may be seen as an aggressive action.
- Do not run or climb a tree. Rapid movements may be perceived as a danger by the bear. You will not be able to outrun a bear, which can reach speeds of 30 mph.
- Be mindful of the potential for cubs. You may not even see the cubs but you want to make sure that you are moving away from the mother bear and not inadvertently coming between her and the cubs. This is also another reason not to climb a tree – cubs are often harbored on trees if the mother perceives a threat.
- Look for signs that the bear feels threatened or nervous. Pacing, swinging its head or popping its jaw indicates that the bear is uneasy. Continue backing away calmly while you talk to the bear.
- An attack is unlikely to occur but should the bear charge, stand your ground. Wave your arms and shout at the bear. If it makes contact, fight back.
- If a bear is foraging around your house or business, stay inside. Turn on all your outside lights but do not go outside with a flashlight to investigate. Being black, bears blend into the darkness very well and you may come across your visitor unexpectedly. Such a close encounter will startle the bear (and you too!)
