Black Bear Captured In Lower Providence

LOWER PROVIDENCE, PA — The black bear that was wandering through Lower Providence has been captured, officials said.

The bear was first spotted at around 7:30 a.m. Sunday on Roanoke Circle, headed in the direction of Church Road, police said.

The Game Commission captured the bear later in the day without incident.

It is not yet clear if the bear will be relocated or what his future will be.

Black bears are native to Pennsylvania and Montgomery County is part of their original habitat. While sightings are rare, they mainly become problematic in highly residential areas, which often lead to "problem" behavior from the bear.

The National Park Service offers the following tips for what to do if you see a black bear:

• Remain watchful.
• Do not approach it
• Do not allow the bear to approach you.
• If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior (stops feeding, changes its travel direction, watches you, etc.) you are too close.
• Being too close may promote aggressive behavior from the bear such as running toward you, making loud noises, or swatting the ground. The bear is demanding more space. Don't run, but slowly back away, watching the bear. Increase the distance between you and the bear. The bear will probably do the same.
• If a bear persistently follows or approaches you, without vocalizing, or paw swatting:
• Change your direction.
• If the bear continues to follow you, stand your ground.
• If the bear gets closer, talk loudly or shout at it.

Image via Lower Providence Police