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Residents of East Greenbush, New York, are being cautioned to be vigilant as black bears have been spotted in the area. These sightings come as bears awaken from hibernation, often hungry and searching for food. According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), bears are drawn to human food sources like garbage cans and bird feeders, which can lead to increased human-bear interactions.
The DEC advises residents to secure garbage, remove bird feeders, and store pet food indoors to prevent attracting bears. Feeding bears is illegal, and doing so can make them more aggressive in seeking out human food sources. The BearWise program offers tips on living responsibly with bears, emphasizing the importance of keeping a safe distance and not approaching them.
Dave Wattles, a biologist with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, warns that bird feeders are particularly problematic, as they train bears to associate human areas with food. He suggests that residents should not only remove bird feeders but also secure chicken coops and livestock to prevent bear intrusions.
As bears emerge earlier due to climate changes, they often find themselves without natural food sources, leading them to residential areas. The Appalachian Mountain Club notes that this behavior increases the risk of bears encountering dangerous situations, such as being hit by cars or shot. Residents are encouraged to report bear sightings to local authorities and to maintain a safe distance if they encounter a bear.