Black Bear Sightings Increase In Summer Months

(News/Talk 1480 WHBC) – Wildlife officials are reminding Ohioans, especially here in northeast Ohio, that black bear sightings increase in the summer months.

Ohio Division of Wildlife spokesperson Jamey Emmert says the bears are young males that were recently booted out by mom.

She says the bears are scared of people, and will not attack people or pets as long as the bear is given its space and not cornered.

“In our office we refer to black bears as oversized raccoons, they eat the same things, behave very similarly and run away, it’s like they don’t know how big they are.

She says to secure your garbage, clean up pet food and clean the grill good, or you could get visited by a black bear looking for a snack.

If you see a black bear, and are at a safe distance, take a picture and let the Division of Wildlife know. You can also call 1-800-WILDLIFE.

Ohio is home to an estimated 60 black bears, with most in southern Ohio where there are fewer people.

Get more tips on what to do if you come across a bear here.