Watch Out For the Bear Family Spotted in Newburgh

Residents in parts of Orange County are being urged to use extra caution after reports of a mother black bear and several cubs roaming through some local neighborhoods.

Folks who have lived in the Hudson Valley for a while 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. Deer, raccoons, skunks, foxes, and even bears can be seen all over the place, but there are some sightings that tend to cause more concern than others...especially bears.

Bear Family Spotted in Newburgh, NY

According to the Town of Newburgh Animal Control & Shelter, a black bear and her three to four cubs were spotted earlier this week in the Cronomer Valley and Fostertown areas of Newburgh.

While bear sightings can certainly grab attention, officials say black bears are a natural part of New York's wildlife and are often simply passing through while searching for food.

However, this situation comes with an added warning because the sightings involve a mother bear with young cubs. Wildlife experts stress that mother bears are extremely protective of their offspring and can become aggressive if they feel their cubs are threatened.

Because of that, town officials are reminding residents that under no circumstances should anyone attempt to approach the bears.

Black Bear

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To help reduce the chances of attracting the bears into residential areas, residents are encouraged to secure garbage cans with locks or straps and, if possible, store them inside a garage. Officials are also recommending that homeowners remove bird feeders and other wildlife feeding stations that could provide an easy meal.

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The Town of Newburgh Police Department also noted that it does not have the authority or resources to trap or relocate bears. Instead, residents who spot the animals are asked to report sightings directly to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's Region 3 office at (845) 256-3098.

Bear sightings tend to increase this time of year as animals travel in search of food, and officials say the best thing residents can do is give the animals plenty of space. By eliminating food sources and allowing wildlife to move through the area undisturbed, both residents and bears can remain safe.

If you live in the Cronomer Valley or Fostertown areas, now might be a good time to bring those bird feeders in and make sure your garbage cans are secured. The last thing anyone wants is a close encounter with a protective mama bear and her cubs.