Black Bear Spotted In West Vincent Township

WEST VINCENT TOWNSHIP, PA — A black bear has been repeatedly spotted around West Vincent Township over the past day, police and local residents said.

The black bear was seen at homes near Horseshoe Trail, and was caught on a home surveillance video rummaging through trash and pulling out a bag.

Black bears are native to Pennsylvania, though their numbers are lower in the densely populated southeastern region, and their appearance should not warrant any concern.

However, humans should be mindful about leaving pet food lying around their yard, not properly cleaning grills and outdoor cooking areas and not properly securing trash.

"While black bears are generally not aggressive and usually want nothing to do with people, a few extra precautions can help keep both residents and our furry traveler safe," West Vincent police noted. "This bear is likely just passing through in search of snacks and a shortcut. Let’s not make your backyard the local buffet."

Sightings of bears occur yearly. Increased sightings can be signs of many things, wildlife experts say, including a loss of habitat pushing bears out of their homes, and an increase in new developments of previously forested areas creating more opportunities for humans and bears to interact. Issues typically only occur when bears or other animals, like coyotes, become reliant upon human trash for food.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission is working with local police to monitor the bear's activity and to ensure both people and wildlife are kept safe.

If you see the bear or have video footage of its location, call 911.