Community gets quick black bear lesson

LOCKPORT, N.Y. (WIVB) - Over the past few months, News 4 has been telling you about a number of black bear sightings in western New York.

Some of you have even e-mailed pictures.

So what should you do if you suddenly find yourself a little too close to the "urban travelers?"

It's no longer unusual to see a 275 pound black bear roaming around in western New York. One bear was more than likely struck and killed by two cars in Wyoming County several weeks ago.

Department of Environmental Conservation Wildlife Biologist Timothy Spierto said, "All of a sudden we are seeing more bears."

Spierto gave the public a quick lesson on black bears at an information meeting in Lockport.

He tells News 4 black bears are often kicked out of their natural habitats by their mothers. Many of the ones we're seeing are on their own for the first time and in search of food.

The DEC wants to make sure you know what to do to make sure the bears stay where they belong.

Spierto said, "Secure your food. Be careful about feeding your pets. Don't put garbage outside two days before pick up."

Black bears who find food in populated areas are referred to as "urban travelers." And once they know there's food somewhere, they will keep going back for more.

Tom Riexinger said, "(I) see them on porches."

Riexinger owns 70 acres on the Southern Tier. He never leaves anything out for bears to feed on, but he knows some people do.

The DEC tells News 4 black bears will challenge people when their on the prowl for food. And black bears have been known to eat all kinds of things including television sets and garbage cans. So you should do everything you can to keep them away from your house.