Black Bears Sighted in Ferguson Township

As fall approaches, black bears are out rummaging for food to fatten up for hibernation.  Each year, the Ferguson Township Police Department receives calls from residents about bear sightings and would like to remind residents of tips to avoid encounters with these creatures.

Although three species of bears inhabit North America, only the black bear is found in Pennsylvania. Hungry black bears feed on bird seed, suet, hummingbird nectar, food scraps and pet food. They are particularly fond of garbage cans and bird feeders. The Pennsylvania Game Commission recommends to not put out your trash until the morning of collection day. Be sure garbage cans are cleaned regularly, with hot water and chlorine bleach. Be sure to clean your outdoor grill after every use, and properly dispose of grill grease. If you have bird feeders, you may want to bring all bird feeders in at night. 

If you do see a bear on your property, your best option leave the bear alone, and clean up the bear's mess after it leaves. Be sure to eliminate or properly store what attracted them in the first place. Be sure to inform your neighbors of the sighting.

Problem bears should be reported to the PA Game Commission Northcentral Region Office at (570) 398-4744

Learn more here about living around Pennsylvania Black Bears.