Bear Kills Local Resident's Chickens

A bear killed several chickens and a duck in Chelmsford Wednesday.

The Lowell Sun reported the bear broke into Bernie Ready’s chicken coop on Clover Hill Drive. He said the bear may have also visited his backyard the day before.

The incident came after several bear sightings in Westford.

Here’s a map of the sightings in Westford and the incident in Chelmsford:

Bears are typically active in the area from April to December. They have been known to attack goat, pigs, and rabbits. Attacks on horses, cats, and dogs are less frequent.

Here are some tips from state wildlife officials on preventing run-ins with bears:

• Take down bird feeders
• Be sure that all pet foods are consumed at a single feeding and not left in the dish. Do not leave pet food or dirty dishes outside at night
• Store all garbage in closed containers in a secure garage or inside location
• Do not place meat scraps, fruit remnants, or sweet materials in your compost pile. Bears will be attracted to these items

Find more tips from the state’s Division of Fisheries & Wildlife.

Photo: This black bear visited the backyard of a home on Pilgrim Drive in Westford Sept. 6. (Courtesy)