A Surprising Visitor on the Porch
On a quiet Wednesday morning, Monique Sheary was sipping her coffee at home in Paxton, Massachusetts, when she noticed something unusual outside. It wasn’t just any visitor — it was a bear, and he was making his way up the front steps of her porch.
“I had opened my front door, so just the glass door was there,” Sheary explained. “All of a sudden, I see this bear walk up the front steps of my porch.”
The bear stood on his hind legs, as if about to knock, but instead of ringing the doorbell, he had a different plan. He had spotted the hummingbird feeders hanging from the porch and was clearly interested in what they had to offer.
“She started to drink from one of the feeders, then moved to the other one,” Sheary said. “It was such an awesome sight!”
She captured video of the bear enjoying the sweet nectar, which lasted for about five minutes. After filling his stomach, the bear simply turned around and walked away — but not before giving Sheary a glance through the window that looked like a satisfied smile.
This isn’t the first time Sheary has had a bear visit her porch. According to her, it happens roughly once a year during the active season for bears.
“That’s when I know it’s time to take the feeders down,” she said. “We’re not trying to attract bears. We’re trying to feed birds.”
Despite the occasional disruption, Sheary doesn’t mind the unexpected guests.
“They’ve broken a few bird feeders before, but we’re okay with that,” she said. “I absolutely am in awe of bears, and I’m happy to coexist with them.”
Coexisting with Wildlife
Living in an area where wildlife is common, Sheary has learned to adjust her habits to ensure both her safety and the well-being of the animals. While she appreciates the presence of bears, she also understands the importance of minimizing human-wildlife conflicts.
“It’s important to be aware of the environment we live in,” she said. “Bears are wild animals, and even though they seem friendly, we should always keep a safe distance.”
Sheary’s experience highlights the delicate balance between human activity and nature. By being mindful of how her actions might affect local wildlife, she ensures that both she and the animals can thrive without unnecessary interference.
The Beauty of Wildlife Encounters
For many people, encountering a wild animal like a bear is a rare and thrilling experience. Sheary sees it as a reminder of the natural world that surrounds her.
“Seeing a bear up close is something special,” she said. “It’s a reminder that we share this space with these amazing creatures.”
While some may find the idea of a bear on their porch unsettling, Sheary embraces the moment with curiosity and respect. She believes that such encounters can foster a deeper appreciation for nature and the importance of living harmoniously with wildlife.
Tips for Living Near Wildlife
If you live in an area where bears or other wild animals are common, there are several steps you can take to reduce the chances of unwanted visits:
- Keep trash securely sealed and avoid leaving food out in the open.
- Remove any potential attractants, such as bird feeders or pet food, especially during peak wildlife seasons.
- Install motion-activated lights or cameras to monitor your property.
- Learn to recognize signs of wildlife activity and take precautions when venturing outside.
By taking these steps, you can help protect both yourself and the animals that call the area home.
Final Thoughts
Monique Sheary’s story is a heartwarming example of how humans and wildlife can coexist. While the unexpected bear visit was surprising, it also served as a reminder of the beauty and unpredictability of nature.
Through patience, understanding, and a bit of humor, Sheary has found a way to appreciate the wild visitors in her neighborhood. Her experience encourages others to approach wildlife encounters with curiosity rather than fear, and to respect the natural world that surrounds us all.
