Black bears are making headlines in PA these days. Chances are you’ve seen a story on your local newscast about a black bear in a neighborhood, asleep in a pool, or digging in the trash. If you haven’t seen it on the news, just jump onto social media. While black bears are getting a whole lot of attention, does that mean there are more black bears in Pennsylvania these days?
Black bears are certainly being spotted a lot more these days, but that’s simply because they live in about three-quarters of Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
Although they’re known to live in three-quarters of the state, however, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has received reports of sightings from all 67 counties. It also reports that, as of 2015, an estimated 20,000 black bears live in Pennsylvania.
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
Officials believe that the increase of black bear sightings in Pennsylvania can be attributed to a few things. Pennsylvania had a pretty mild May, drawing more bears out into the open during the day.
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
The pandemic meant more people than normal were at home which, in turn, resulted in a higher number of black bear sightings.
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
Black bears typically come out at dawn and at dusk, and there are a few things you can do to keep from attracting them to your home or yard.
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
It’s illegal in Pennsylvania to feed black bears. If you know that there are black bears in your area, avoid putting out bird food or food for other animals, such as squirrels. If you do put it out, bring it in at night.
Flickr/Jeannette S.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission also recommends keeping trash indoors until it’s time to be picked up and bringing any pet food indoors in the evening.
Flickr/Bess Sadler
Don’t panic if you see a black bear in your yard. You can chase it away by making a loud noise, or simply let him be until he leaves. The good news is black bears rarely attack and will generally back away if you cause a commotion.
Flickr/Moiggi Interactive
Learn all about living with black bears, an insightful guide from the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
Have you spotted any black bears in Pennsylvania? Are you near a forested area or in a neighborhood? Join the conversation in the comments! For an up-close view of various animals, go on a drive-thru safari at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Halifax.
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
Flickr/Jeannette S.
Flickr/Bess Sadler
Flickr/Moiggi Interactive
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