There have been numerous bear sightings around Butler County in recent days.
Chip Brunst, information education supervisor for the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Northwest Region, says bears are on the move this time of year so sightings aren’t uncommon, even in densely populated areas.
Young black bears are looking for new homes and older adult bears are active for mating season.
“If you come across a bear, you should leave the area the same way you came in,” Brunst said. “Just back up and go back the way you came.”
Brunst also suggests keeping dogs on a leash when you’re out walking and to ‘bear proof’ your home– meaning put the food away.
“Bears are in your yard because they’re looking for a free meal,” he said.
There are more bears in Butler County than most people realize, according to Brunst, but since they are mostly nocturnal and are more afraid of people than people are of them, interaction is minimal. Brunst says people need to learn how to cohabitate with bears because relocation is not an effective solution.
“They find their way back,” he said.
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