Animal Sightings in the Delaware Valley

The article, Police searching for black bear in West Goshen Township came across my Facebook feed today.

The article notes that a bear has been sighted in the West Chester area a number of times during the last few days, that the state game commission was notified, and that a "reverse 911" call was made to 600 residents in the vicinity.

Additionally, it also notes that a shelter in place order was issued to residents in Bucks County after a black bear was sighted over the week-end in Lower Makefield. Other sightings have been reported in Delaware County's Chadds Ford and Upper Chichester. Of all places, a bear was even spotted near Camden, NJ.

This is at least the 3rd local bear sighting that I've been aware of in recent years. It amazes me to note how quickly the phenomenon switched from surprising to routine.

I guess it's a good sign for wildlife conservation efforts... or maybe this time it's because human activity has been drastically reduced by the lockdown. Like the coyotes in San Francisco.

In the past, they said it's an annual rite of passage for young bears to explore while they're finding their own territories and people should mainly just keep away from it until it gets on its way...

If you do encounter a bear, here's some useful advice from the National Park Service:

Remain watchful, and do not approach the bear. If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior (stops feeding, changes its travel direction, watches you, etc.) you are too close. Being too close may promote aggressive behavior from the bear such as running toward you, making loud noises, or swatting the ground. The bear is demanding more space. Don't run, but slowly back away, watching the bear. Increase the distance between you and the bear. The bear will probably do the same.

If a bear persistently follows or approaches you, change your direction. And if the bear continues to follow you, stand your ground. If it gets close, shout at it, and act aggressively. Look it straight in the eyes and let it know you will fight if attacked. Stamp your feet and take a step or two toward the bear. Threaten the bear with whatever is handy, such as a stick or pole. The more the bear persists, the more aggressive your response should be, according to the National Park Service.

Also, police are asking people to call 911 if they do spot a bear.

Personally, I saw a red fox in the back yard when I was walking the dog the other night, but it was too dark for photos and of course we have deer here all the time (see my profile picture ; -). I haven't come across any bears in the wild recently, though. Have you?