Police Confirm the Black Bear is Here

Editor's Note: This is a file photo.

The black bear spotted in West Barnstable - and still moving about the cabin freely - most likely swam across the Cape Cod Canal to get to the Cape, a representative from the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife said.

According to a Cape Cod Times report, Barnstable Police have confirmed the bear's presence. A photo of the bear was brought to the police department along with several reports of the bear sightings since Sunday when it was reported at Route 132 and Route 6A in West Barnstable. 

Residents have been warned to keep pets inside, remove trash and anything that may attract the bear. 

It is believed the bear may have come from Middleboro last month and is a young bear, about 2 years old and 200 pounds, the Times reported.

The police said the bear is not a threat to people, in the Times report. 

Officials are coming to the Cape today to respond to the reports of the bear.