More Bear Sightings Reported Near Homes in the Hudson Valley

If you've spotted a bear wandering through your neighborhood lately, you're definitely not alone.

Over the last few months, we've heard from multiple towns across the Hudson Valley warning residents that black bears are roaming around. Earlier this month, the Town of Newburgh Animal Control & Shelter reported that a black bear and her three to four cubs had been spotted in the Cronomer Valley and Fostertown areas.

Black Bear Attack's Man in Upstate New York

That was in Orange County. Now, it appears the bears are making their presence known in Putnam County as well.

Bear Sighting in Carmel, NY

The Carmel Police Department recently posted a warning to residents on Facebook, saying:

"Our headquarters has been receiving calls for bear sightings in the areas of Daisy Ln and Dixon Rd. Just wanted to let you know - in case you want to tighten up those garbage cans and keep an extra close watch on your domesticated furry friends....Stay Safe and do not pet."

 

While seeing a black bear can be exciting, it's also a good reminder that these animals are becoming more active as they search for easy food sources. Now might be a good time to make sure those garbage cans are secured, bird feeders are taken down, and pet food isn't left outside.

It's also important to keep a close eye on your dogs, cats, and other furry family members, especially during the early morning and evening hours when bears tend to be most active.

Black Bear

Black Bear Attacks Woman in Upstate New York

The sightings come just weeks after a frightening encounter in Greene County, where a woman was attacked by a black bear while tending to a fire barrel on her property.

Jeanette Ricucci said the attack happened without warning.

"I didn't hear anything," Ricucci explained. "I just felt like somebody was standing behind me, and then I turned around, and when I turned around, he was already up on his hind legs and he just kind of smacked me."

The unexpected attack knocked her to the ground.

"I fell, he trampled over me and then ran across the street," she said.

Bear Safety in New York

While most bears want absolutely nothing to do with people, they are still wild animals and should always be treated with caution and respect.

SEE ALSO: Person Attacked by a Rabid Skunk in Upstate New York

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation advises residents to never approach, feed, or attempt to interact with a bear. If you encounter one, give it plenty of space, make noise, and slowly back away. Running can trigger a chase response and should be avoided.

As bear activity increases throughout the summer months, wildlife experts say eliminating food sources is the best way to keep bears from returning to residential neighborhoods.

So if you happen to spot one strolling through your backyard, remember the golden rule: enjoy the sight from a safe distance.

And just in case it needs to be said one more time: do not pet the bear.