Black bear spotted near home in North Port

Kaycee Sloan
·1 min read
Black bear spotted near home in North Port

Video above: Black bear found shot to death in Florida neighborhood

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A black bear sighting in North Port is causing residents to stay vigilant.

According to the North Port Police Department, the bear was spotted along Tidwell Street in the Estates area.

Police are urging residents in the area to secure garbage cans and other food sources to prevent the bear from nearing homes.

Florida bears more active this season: How to stay safe

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conversation Commission is aware of the bear sighting. Anyone who sees the bear is asked to contact the agency’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.

Credit: North Port Police Department
Credit: North Port Police Department

It’s illegal to intentionally feed bears, leave food or garbage out to attract them in Florida. To prevent bear sightings, officials recommend securing trash cans. People can also scare bears away by yelling, using an air horn, or anything else that makes a lot of noise.

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind as bear sightings become common in the warmer months:

  • Secure food and garbage and put it out in the morning rather than the night before

  • Protect gardens, compost, and livestock with electric fencing

  • Pick ripe fruit from any plants or trees and remove called fruit from the ground

  • Slow down when driving, especially on rural highways and at dawn and dusk

  • Remove or secure bird and wildlife feeders

  • Never leave pet food outside

  • Clean and store grills and smokers after each use

  • Alert neighbors of bear activity

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