Wildlife Warning: Bear Suspected in Croton Heights

Police have issued a warning to residents about a bear possibly wandering in the Croton Heights area of Yorktown.

Footprints have been observed in snow-covered ground. Bird feeders have been tampered with.

There are no reported sightings, but several residents of Revere and Rutledge drives have reported signs of bear activity.

“While this may seem like a great time to get photographs,” the police alert says, “the public is strongly advised to remain indoors if you see a bear.”

Also, call the police at 962-4141.

While bear sightings in Yorktown are not routine, there have been some in the past few years, police said.

New York Department of Conservation experts say that young bears often roam in the spring, sometimes as far south as Westchester.

Police offer these tips from the DEC for reducing bear-human conflict:

• Keep young children and pets indoors
• Remove bird feeders. Bird seed and suet are big attractions for bears.
• Do not leave garbage outside of houses or garages. Even dirty diapers attract bears.
• Do not feed pets outside.
• Remove the grease can from gas and charcoal grills after every use. Run the grill on high after cooking to remove residual odors.
• Do not operate refrigerators or freezers outside or on porches.
• Do not place food outside to attract wildlife.
• Mask garbage odors with ammonia-soaked rags.

PHOTO: This backyard bear was posted on Merrimack Patch’s Facebook page in 2014.

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