Unusual Bear Activity Sparks Concern in Northwest Alabama
Residents of northwest Alabama are experiencing an unusual encounter with wildlife as at least one bear has been spotted in multiple locations over the weekend. The sightings have raised questions and concern among locals, prompting officials to issue reminders about how to react when encountering bears.
On Sunday, a small black bear was reported on Hawk Pride Mountain in Colbert County. This incident was followed by another sighting on Saturday morning, when a black bear was seen on Kiser Road south of Littleville. Then, just hours later, a very similar-looking bear was spotted in Lawrence County on County Road 256 in Town Creek.
Jennifer Kirby shared a video of the bear in her yard around 8:00 p.m., showing it making itself comfortable among the fruit trees. While there is no confirmation that all three sightings involve the same bear, several details align across the incidents.
Each of the bears appears to be young and traveling alone, which is not uncommon for cubs exploring their surroundings. Additionally, all of the bears seem to have a particular fondness for eating, especially pears and apples. This behavior suggests they may be searching for food sources in areas where they typically don’t venture.
Alabama state wildlife officials have noted that bears are migrating east this summer, entering regions where they are not usually seen. This shift could be due to changes in habitat or food availability. In fact, a bear was recently spotted in Athens last month, further highlighting the movement of these animals into new areas.
The increased presence of bears in residential zones has led to warnings from local authorities. If you come across a bear in your area, it is important to stay calm and avoid approaching it. Keep a safe distance and do not attempt to feed or interact with the animal. Instead, contact Alabama wildlife authorities immediately to report the sighting.
Wildlife officials emphasize that bears are generally not aggressive unless they feel threatened or cornered. However, it’s crucial to take precautions to ensure both human and animal safety. Residents should secure trash and remove any potential food sources that might attract bears to their property.
In addition to keeping a safe distance, people should also be aware of their surroundings, especially during the early morning or late evening hours when bears are more active. If you live in an area where bears have been sighted, it’s wise to educate yourself on proper bear safety measures.
For those interested in staying updated on local news and wildlife activity, there are several resources available. Local news outlets often provide updates on animal sightings and safety tips. Additionally, online platforms such as YouTube offer a variety of videos covering recent developments and expert advice on wildlife encounters.
As the bear population continues to expand into new territories, it’s essential for residents to remain informed and cautious. By following guidelines from wildlife authorities and taking necessary precautions, communities can coexist safely with these wild animals.
