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A black bear was spotted at the Boulder Ridge condominiums in Greenburgh off Jackson Avenue, Sprain Road, and Ardsley Road, on Thursday, June 11, Town Supervisor Paul Feiner said.
Bears have also been spotted in Hastings and Scarsdale this week. It is unclear whether it has been the same bear making the rounds or different bears.
Feiner said that he has been in touch with the state Department of Environmental Conservation, who said that “bears show up when there are loosely fitted garbage containers or birdfeeders.
“Please remove loose fitting garbage If you see a black bear never run away or approach the bear,” he said. “Make as much noise as possible. Be safe. NYS DEC won't remove the bears unless they pose safety risks. Black bears are also attracted to kiddy pools.”
In response to the recent rash of sightings, the DEC will be making a presentation at the Greenburgh Town Board meeting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, which will be televised.
At the DEC meeting, Emily Carrollo, a wildlife biologist will be on hand. Feiner said the meeting will be taped and put on YouTube for the community to share.
“My guess: the bears are here just like the deer and coyotes and foxes. And we will have to learn how to live with them,” he added.
In the event of a bear sighting, wildlife officials offered a series of tips in case of a close encounter:
- 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.
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