West Vincent Township officials have received several reports of a black bear spotted in the area, writes Justin Heinze for Patch.
Residents have caught the small bear on home surveillance cameras. The bear has been seen rummaging through trash cans and pulling out bags.
West Vincent Township Police Department shared a Nest Camera video of the bear in a Facebook post on Monday night. The video showed the bear taking out a trash bag next to a covered boat in the resident’s driveway.
In the post, West Vincent police assured residents that black bears are generally considered safe and pose no threats to the community.
Police also shared guidance on how to “keep both residents and our furry traveler safe.” Officials recommend keeping bird feeders and pet food indoors, securing garbage cans and placing them in the road the morning of trash pickup instead of the night before, and quickly cleaning grills and outdoor cooking equipment.
Police also ask residents to give the bear plenty of space if spotted.
The West Vincent incidents come amid a general uptick in bear sightings, as deforestation and residential development have led to a loss of their natural habitat.
As for Chester County, the Pennsylvania Game Commission will work with police to monitor the bear’s activity to keep both residents and local wildlife safe.
Read more about the recent black bear sightings in West Vincent Township in Patch.
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