Multiple bear sightings reported in North Shore town Wednesday morning

Multiple bear sightings in the area of Kirkbride Drive and Maple Street in Danvers were reported Wednesday morning.

Danvers Police remind residents in a tweet to “secure any sources of food and to supervise samll children and pets.”

Black bears are becoming increasingly common in Massachusetts after several sightings this summer. On Sunday, Danvers Police said a bear was seen on Centre Street and advised residents to remove bird feeders and secure their trash.

That sighting came on the heels of reports in Wilmington and the Merrimack Valley in July.

In a news release Aug. 5, MassWildlife detailed the drought’s impact on various plants and animals. The agency says berries, bears’ primary food source, can become scarce during an extended drought.

“In dry summers, nuisance bear complaints tend to be higher because bears are more frequently using residential areas, taking advantage of bird feeders and trash,” according to MassWildlife.

The impact can also roll into the fall, as dry conditions affect the timing and quality of acorn crops. This means bears may seek food in agricultural areas, leading to crop damage.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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