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Now a bear that's being spotted so frequently in a Northern Westchester neighborhood has a nickname of its town.
Meet "Scrabble."
A resident of a Mount Kisco neighborhood where the black bear has made itself at home this weekend tells Daily Voice it has earned the nickname, originated by kids in the neighborhood, "because he breaks off pieces of wood when climbing fences."
Other residents have said "Scrabble" is short for Hardscrabble Road in Chappaqua, where the bear was first sighted.
The bear was first spotted making the rounds on Beverly Road in Mount Kisco on Saturday.
Here are some tips in case you have a close encounter with a bear:
- Remain calm and avoid sudden movements;
- Give the bear plenty of room, allowing it to continue its activities undisturbed. If it changes its behavior, you are too close, back away;
- If you see a bear, but it doesn't see you, detour quickly and quietly;
- If it sees you, talk in normal tones and wave your arms;
- If a bear pursues you, do not run. Throw a personal item on the ground. He may be distracted by this and allow you to slowly escape;
- A standing bear is not always a sign of aggression. Many bears will stand to get a better view.
"If a bear is seen in your town or neighborhood, leave it alone. In most situations, if left alone and given an avenue for escape, the bear will usually wander back into more secluded areas," according to officials. "Keep dogs under control. Stay away from the bear and advise others to do the same. Do not approach the bear so as to take a photo or video.
"Often a bear will climb a tree to avoid people. A crowd of bystanders will only stress the bear and also add the risk that the bear will be chased into traffic or the crowd of people."
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