A large bear has been spotted a few times this week on or near Big Woods Rd in Dickerson, west of Boyds and Germantown and north of Poolesville. Photo courtesy of @DMVentrepreneuer on instagram. There have been several bear sightings in Montgomery County this year, but they have slowed as most bears move west as we move into mid-summer
According to BearWise.org, “Mating often begins in June and goes on throughout July. Mature males may be more active in the daytime now as they travel longer distances throughout their home range. Female bears ready to mate also travel throughout their home range. Bears are very focused on finding mates, so try not to hike alone, pay attention and make noise if you’re out in the woods.”
What precautions should you take and what should you do if you see one? Montgomery Parks shared the following earlier this season: “Black bear sightings have become a common occurrence in Montgomery County between May and July. During this time, solitary bears-often young males-are striking out on their own, sometimes traveling considerable distances in search of a suitable home range to call their own.
By the end of summer, most of these bears find their way to more desirable areas in the western part of Maryland. These sightings are exciting for most people but can be alarming for many citizens who are not expecting to see bears traveling through.
To minimize conflict, residents should take the following precautions:
– Remove bird feeders.
– Secure trash cans.
– Keep pet food inside.
– Eliminate any potential food sources.
Montgomery Parks Wildlife Staff is interested in recording black bear sightings at any time of year. If you see or encounter a bear in Montgomery County, please contact: 301-962-1341 or 301-962-1344.
Remember to do your part to help keep bears and other wildlife wild! Learn more about living with bears and what to do if you encounter wildlife on the Montgomery Parks website.”