Black bear spotted in Upper Makefield. What to do if you encounter a bear

It's a bit early for mating season, but at least one Bucks County bear has been spotted in rural Upper Makefield.

A township police officer on patrol in the wee hours of Monday morning spotted the black bear near Street Road, between Lurgan and Windy Hollow roads. The bear was minding its own business, and appeared to be doing ordinary bear stuff, probably foraging for eats.

In a post to the department's Facebook page, the police wrote this advisory, "This isn’t the first time one has been seen in our area and it definitely will not be the last. We know this may be unnerving for some, so we included a link from the PA Game Commission on how to live with black bears and the info provided should help alleviate your concerns."

Bears in Bucks County

Bucks County regularly has black bear sightings, usually when the animals are on the move during mating season, which is from early June to mid-July. While the rural parts of the central and upper county are hot spots, sometimes the bears wander into suburban Lower Bucks County, usually along the the Neshaminy Creek watershed.

Previously on Black Bear Spotted Another bear sighting in Bucks County; but is it the same one?

The Upper Makefield cops wrote: "If you do see the bear, it is not necessary to call 911 unless there is an immediate danger. You can always message us via Facebook if you spot the bear or have signs that the bear was on your property.

"If the bear does become a nuisance, the PA Game Commission may opt to try and relocate it. Until then, enjoy and appreciate Mother Nature and all she has to offer."

The bear post brought out the humor in some residents, who posted zingers.

"Did you read him his rights?" a woman asked.

Another posted, "Have a beary good day," followed by a guy who said: "I see Sasquatch on River Rd once in a while."

Naturally, someone posted a gif of Yogi Bear making off with a picnic basket, chased by Mr. Ranger.

Finally, a poster stated good advice: "Don't bother them and they won't bother you. Stay away."

Fur real.

What to do if you see a bear

The Pennsylvania Game Commission said bear attacks are extremely rare. "In most cases, a bear will detect you first and leave the area long before you'll ever see it," the commission wrote on its website.

Here are some guideline if you do encounter a bear, according to the commmission:.

Alert the bear. Make some noise, giving the hbear time to retreat. You don't want to surprise it or let it get too close.

Get back. "Back away slowly while facing the bear so you always know where the bear is and how its reacting," the commission said.

Stay calm. "While moving away, avoid sudden movements and talk to help the bear keep track of your retreat. Don’t turn and run or attempt to climb a tree. Running may prompt the bear to give chase, and climbing a tree could be interpreted as a threat to any cubs that are present since cubs often climb trees when startled. Move toward your camper, house or vehicle if nearby," according to the commission.

The agency said "some bears have been known to charge to within a few feet when threatened. If this occurs, wave your arms wildly and shout at the bear."

Fight back. "If a black bear attacks, fight back. Bears have been driven away when people have fought back with rocks, sticks, binoculars and even their bare hands."

JD Mullane can be reached at 215-949-5745 or at jmullane@couriertimes.com.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Bear spotted in Upper Makefield; What to do if you encounter a bear