Bears Have Emerged from Dens and Are Seeking Food

With recent reports of bear sightings outside of Rte. 495 and west, MassWildlife is issuing reminders to residents living outside Rte. 128 to be aware of black bears and to take precautions to avoid conflict by removing outside sources of food, such as bird feeders, and to properly secure animals.

The presence of a bear is not an immediate threat. In most instances, a bear is simply seeking the most accessible and nutritious food source available, which is most often bird seed, feed, garbage, compost, or unsecured chickens, rabbits, livestock or beehives.

The only way to prevent repeat visits is to remove or properly secure all sources of food. Chicken and rabbit owners, as well as beekeepers, are advised to invest in electric fencing to protect their coops, hutches, and hives. Bears are smart and will learn where predictable and readily available sources of food are and will continue to spend time in that area.

What to Do if You See a Bear

Leave it alone and do not panic. Call the Weston Police at 781-786-6201. A bear's first response to something unusual is to leave.

In Your Neighborhood: If a bear is feeding in an area where it doesn't belong, step outside, yell, and make lots of noise. A bear will usually leave. If you continue to see bears, check your property for potential food sources

In the Woods: Bears are usually wary of people and normal trail noise will alert bears to your presence, so they will often disappear before you see them. If you see a bear, make it aware of your presence by clapping, talking, or making other sounds while slowly backing away, then leave the area. Do not approach or intrude between a female bear and her cubs. Keep dogs leashed and under control.

Bears Have Emerged from Dens and Are Seeking Food

What to Do if You See a Bear

Learn More About Black Bears from MassWildlife