Numerous Bear Sightings Reported In North Andover

NORTH ANDOVER, MA — Police said they have had numerous reports of a black bear and a cub seen at Foster Street and Bridges Lane in North Andover.

Police posted the following on Facebook:

PUBLIC SAFETY ANNOUNCEMENT** We have received multiple calls of a black bear (Momma & Cub) seen in the area of Foster Street and Bridges Lane.

If you see the family:

• DO NOT approach
• DO NOT feed
• DO NOT stop to take photos or videos

Human Mommas are protective of their children. So, remember Bear Momma can / are also protective of their young.

We are asking residents to do the following:

• REMOVE all outdoor bird feeders
• SECURE any chickens or small livestock
• SECURE all garbage, pet food, livestock food
• DO NOT feed pets outside
• TEACH children to never run from a bear
• KEEP dogs on leashes

Most bears will leave people alone, should you encounter a bear stand like a tree, make yourself look as large as possible and make as much noise as possible, never run from a wild animal.

Please call Massachusetts Environmental Police Dispatch (800-632-8075) or MassWildlife Northeast District (978-772-2145) for non emergency bear related inquiries, should you have a bear related emergency please call 911.