Massive Black Bear Causing Havoc in a Hudson Valley Neighborhood

Residents are worried about a "300-pound" black bear that's been seen roaming around town.

If you lived in the Hudson Valley for a while, you are well aware that we live in a part of the country where it's not uncommon to see various types of wildlife roaming around outside. We have a huge population of deer, raccoons, skunks, foxes, bears, and more, so folks shouldn't be surprised if they see them in their neighborhoods, right?

Bear Sightings Worry Some Hudson Valley Residents

Residents who live in the Town of Ulster, NY, recently expressed their concerns at a Town Board meeting after some reported that a massive bear was causing havoc in their neighborhood. According to the Daily Freeman, Town of Ulster resident Dawn DeLuca stated, "There is a bear, a 300-pounder, roaming Fox Run and Sunrise Park. Last night, he took out the feeders at VanKleeck Lane, proceeded to go to someone’s house and grab a garbage bag, and take it to someone’s house at Cora Terrace and eat it under their tree so they had to clean it up."

SEE ALSO: Hudson Valley Man Killed After Striking Deer With Motorcycle

DeLuca explained that she followed the previously announced bear sighting instructions and called the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to report the bear and to ask for help. She noted that she wasn't happy with the "lecture" she was given, saying,

"I got lectured … (that) it was my responsibility to contact all of my neighbors. I should go and hang a sign on their doors informing them of the bear, that I should inform them to put their garbage cans in their homes so that the bear does not go after their garbage."

 

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Are Bears in Your Neighborhood?

If you've seen a bear in your neighborhood, we would love to hear about it. Text us your story through our station app (above) and we may use it for a future article. If you're worried about bears where you live, there are a few steps you can take to make sure they don't destroy anything.

How to Keep Bears Away

According to DEC, you should properly secure garbage and recycling cans, take down bird feeders, do not leave pet food outside, and clean and store all cooking grills and smokers. If you have had previous bear encounters, they also recommend electric fences and unwelcome door mats that use electricity to keep them away. Get more tips to keep bears away from your home online here.