Residents Alerted to Bear Presence
Residents of Cottage Grove, a small town in Oregon, were alerted to the presence of a black bear in their neighborhood yesterday. The bear was seen wandering around the streets and making its way into yards and gardens.
Officials from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife have advised residents to be cautious and avoid approaching the bear. They have also issued guidelines on how to stay safe in bear country, including keeping garbage cans secured and not leaving food outside.
Experts Warn Against Feeding the Bear
Wildlife experts have warned against feeding the bear, as it could lead to the animal becoming habituated to humans and losing its natural fear of people. They have also cautioned that if the bear becomes too comfortable around humans, it could become a danger to public safety.
“The best thing residents can do is to give the bear space and let it move on naturally,” said John Doe, a wildlife biologist with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. “Feeding the bear or trying to get close to it is not only dangerous, but it’s also illegal.”
What to Do If You Encounter a Bear
If you encounter a bear in the wild, experts advise staying calm and backing away slowly. Do not run, as this can trigger the bear’s instinct to chase. If the bear approaches you, make yourself look as large as possible and make loud noises to scare it away.
It’s important to remember that black bears are generally not aggressive towards humans, and attacks are rare. However, it’s always best to be prepared and know how to react in case of an encounter.
How to Bear-Proof Your Home
If you live in bear country, it’s important to take steps to bear-proof your home and property. This includes:
- Securing garbage cans and compost bins.
- Removing bird feeders and pet food from outside.
- Closing windows and doors when you’re not home.
- Installing motion-activated lights to deter bears at night.
Conclusion
While the presence of a black bear in Cottage Grove may be surprising to some residents, it’s important to remember that these animals are a natural part of the ecosystem. By taking steps to ensure our safety and the safety of the bear, we can coexist peacefully with these magnificent creatures.
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