Narragansett Bear Scare Prompts Warning For Rhode Islanders

NARRAGANSETT, RI — A Rhode Island woman's frightening encounter with a black bear this week prompted a warning from state officials as the animal's population grows in the region. Brenda McCloskey was gardening at a residence in Narragansett Tuesday and packing up for the day when she saw an adult black bear approaching her car. McCloskey hopped in the vehicle and thought she was safe.

"(The bear) put the paw and his mouth on the door and opened the door," McCloskey told WPRI.

McCloskey said she got into a tug-of-war with the animal over the door and started her engine, which frightened the bear away.

"I was scared to death," McCloskey told WPRI.

The bear was attracted to the area by outdoor bird feeders at homes in the area, according to state Wildlife Biologist Charlie Brown.

"There is no reason for a bear to be close to houses unless there is something to eat there," Brown said in a statement. "Almost every call we get is related to bears taking down bird feeders. Be sure to remove your bird feeders and other potential food sources from your yards."

It was the latest bear sighting in the state in recent days. Bear sightings were also reported in Coventry and North Kingstown, according to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.

There should be more frequent black bear sightings in the Ocean State as the animal's population grows in Massachusetts and Connecticut, according to Brown.

Black bears can weigh up to 450 pounds. They are typically shy and fearful of humans, but if they become dependent on a food source in a yard they can become a nuisance, Brown said.

Brown said if you come across a bear and surprise it, walk away slowly while facing the bear — do not turn your back and run.

Rhode Islanders are asked to report bear sightings to the state Department of Environmental Management at 401-222-3070.