Black Bear Spotted In Radnor Over Weekend: Police

Radnor Township Police are reporting a black bear was seen in Radnor's St. Davids area this weekend and are hoping to inform residents of how to handle a bear encounter.

According to police, the bear appeared at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 10 near the 400 block of Round Hill Road.

Pennsylvania's bear population has been growing over the years, which has led to an increase in human-bear encounters, police said. Residents are encouraged to ensure all trashcan lids are secure, outdoor grills are covered, and bird feeders are removed to avoid drawing bears in search of food to homes.

While bears do not often attack pets, police said keeping dogs leashed, refraining from leaving small pets unsupervised while outside, and keeping lights on, keeping pets inside at night, and feeding pets inside can help prevent bears from encountering pets. Police said if feeding must occur outside, pet owners should remove the food dish and clean the area, as well as store food and other enticing items in locking, animal-proof containers, when pets are done eating.

If a pet is attacked, police urge residents not to approach the bear. Police said the best options to stop an attack are making noise, or spraying a hose or throwing objects at the bear from a safe distance. Owners should gather their pet and leave the area after the bear has fled. Police said after calling a veterinarian, owners should immediately call the appropriate state wildlife agency.

Police said no one should approach a bear or wild animal and should call 911 immediately.

According to information shared by police, black bears can range from 100 to more than 500 lbs. When given incentives to approach homes, bears can cause damage to buildings and vehicles.

Patch file photo