Pleasantville Advisory: Black Bear Sighting Wednesday

Press release from the Village of Pleasantville:

The Village of Pleasantville Police Department has received reports of black bear sightings, specifically in the area of Weskora Avenue. According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), black bears are transient occupants of Westchester County. They are most often not dangerous to humans, however if they become conditioned to human presence, or feel threatened they can become so. If you see a bear, do not approach it. If possible remain indoors, or in a safe location, until it leaves the area. If at any time you feel threatened or feel that a bear is not acting normally, call the Pleasantville Police Department at 914-769-1500.

Residents can make their property less attractive to them by following these recommendations:

• Remove bird feeders. New York's black bears begin emerging from their winter dens in mid to late March. Bird feed such as suet and seeds are a very strong attraction for bears, even if they can't reach them.
• Garbage is extremely attractive to bears! It should always be kept in sealed garbage cans inside a sturdy building like a garage or shed. Anything with an odor can attract a bear. It’s recommended to take out trash just before your scheduled pickup. Do not put garbage at the curb the night before.
• Remove the grease can from grills after every use. Turn the grill on "High" for several minutes after you are done cooking to burn residual odors off the grill.
• Do not place food outside to attract wildlife. Any food items used to attract birds, squirrels, or other wildlife will also attract bears.
• Do not feed pets outside. Leftover food or even an empty dish can attract a bear.
• Do not operate refrigerators or freezers outside or on porches. Bears can smell what is inside.

For further information on how to respond to black bear encounters, please visit: https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/94710.html

For further information on how best to reduce human-bear conflicts, please visit: https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/6960.html

This press release was produced by the Village of Pleasantville. The views expressed here are the author’s own.