A Massachusetts resident was in for a huge surprise as she spotted a huge black bear stealing from a bird feeder on her porch.
Huge Black Bear Steals From Bird Feeder
Newsweek reports that Gina, from the Berkshires, noted that it was time for the bird feeder to be brought inside her home.
She also explained to Newsweek that this was not the bear's first visit. Since she had her house in the Berkshires, the black bear has visited her one to two times a year in the last two years. Gina got her Berkshires home during the pandemic after residing in New York and other cities for her whole life.
She had gotten used to life in the bear country and learned expensively and difficultly that leaving the bird feeder outside during bear season would alert the said black bear.
Gina told the bear to get down as the creature was balancing itself on the railing of her porch. When the bear heard Gina's shouting, he slid down and paced through the yard.
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Bear Encounters
The presence of bears in the area is not news to residents. Gina explains that these creatures are typically not aggressive and tend to keep to themselves. She adds that they are usually spotted in the early spring, as they may be hungry after hibernation.
Gina also notes that the bear's obedience is a prime example of the creature's behavior when not threatened and when cubs aren't present.
WWLP also adds that such bear sightings are common during this time. Hence, garbage should be stored, and bird feeders should be placed high up so that bears cannot reach them.
In the entire US, Massachusetts is considered the third-most populated country when it comes to black bears. Roughly 4,500 live in the state and are spreading towards the east.
How To Behave During Bear Encounters
BearWise says these creatures rarely take an aggressive turn when encountering humans. However, it is best to avoid such encounters and know what to do if they happen.
Jaime Sajecki, the leader of the Black Bear Project, explains that one should never run from or approach a bear if spotted. In such cases, it is best to get away and leave quietly.
However, if the bear comes close, it is recommended to make oneself appear bigger, exude loud noises, claps your hands, and keep on backing away.
BearWise notes what should be done during bear encounters in specific circumstances and places, such as backyards and the woods. For one, if bear encounters occur in the backyard, it is recommended to make loud noises from a distance to scare the beast away. This can be done by shouting or banging pots. When the creature goes away, potential attractants should be removed.
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