Black Bear Family Makes Surprise Visit to Sanford Neighborhood
A family in Sanford, Florida, woke up to an unexpected sight: a mama black bear and her three cubs roaming through their neighborhood. The bears were seen rummaging through trash and exploring the area, with one of the cubs even nibbling on an outdoor in-ground light. The encounter was captured on video, providing a glimpse into the surprising visit.
While the sight of black bears in residential areas may cause concern, wildlife officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) advise that these animals are typically not aggressive. However, they do warn that bears will defend themselves if they feel threatened. To minimize bear encounters, residents are encouraged to secure items such as food, garbage, pet food, and bird feeders, which are known to attract bears.
It’s also important to take precautions when walking pets, keeping them close and being mindful of your surroundings to avoid unwanted bear interactions. If you encounter a bear or notice any issues such as an injured animal, contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). For more information on how to handle wildlife encounters, visit Fox 35 Orlando.
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Black bears are a common sight in Florida, but their presence in residential neighborhoods is a reminder to always stay vigilant and take steps to ensure the safety of both people and wildlife.