Black Bear Spotted In Holly Springs

HOLLY SPRINGS, GA — The Holly Springs Police Department recently received a special visit when a black bear was sighted in its parking lot.

Police announced the news Monday, sharing bear safety tips on its Facebook page. The police station is located at Holly Springs Parkway.

Residents are encouraged to do the following:

• Stay indoors: It's best to avoid contact with the bear, if possible. If spotted, residents should stay inside and make sure their pets are inside, as well.
• Secure all trash and food: Bears are attracted to food, so residents should make sure all trash cans and compost bins are securely closed. They should also remove any bird feeders and pet food from outside.
• Keep a safe distance: If residents encounter a bear while outside, they should stay a safe distance away and avoid getting between a mother bear and her cubs.

BearWise, a program the Department of Natural Resources previously said was established by bear biologists from each of the 15 state wildlife agencies that comprise the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, offers six safety tips on its website. Go here to see the BearWise Basics.