Following several sightings of black bears in suburban Bucks County, authorities are sharing important information to help local residents.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission recently shared a list of facts and information regarding the black bear, which is native to the area. The Bucks County Conservation District also shared the list.

“Pennsylvania’s bear population has been increasing for decades, and at the same time, many people have moved into the areas where bears reside,” the commission said online. “As a result, bears and people are coming into contact more than ever.”

Some of the tips to stay safe around the animals include:

• Alert the bear
• Get back
• Stay calm
• Pay attention
• As a last resort, fight back

With the exception of mother bears with their cubs nearby, black bears are not known to be aggressive and typically avoid contact with humans.

Just a few weeks ago, residents of Upper Makefield Township saw what authorities called a “very small, very young” black bear wondering through local suburbs. Yesterday, another, much larger black bear was seen wandering through the streets of Feasterville.

Learn more about what to do when confronted with a black bear at the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

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