A black bear was spotted roaming a backyard in Darnestown Thursday night, a somewhat rare, but not unheard-of sight in Montgomery County as bears emerge from hibernation and begin searching for food.
The sighting comes as the Maryland Department of Natural Resources continues to warn residents about increased bear activity during the spring months, when bears are especially hungry after going months without eating. Officials say unsecured food sources like trash, bird feeders, pet food, and even dirty grills can quickly attract bears into residential areas.
While black bears are more commonly found in western parts of the state, including Allegany, Garrett, Washington, and Frederick counties, younger males are known to roam into central Maryland, including Montgomery County, this time of year as they search for new territory. These visits can become more frequent if bears find easy access to food.
DNR urges residents to take simple precautions to avoid attracting bears, including removing bird feeders from April through November, securing trash in bear-resistant containers, storing pet food indoors, and keeping grills clean or properly stored. Officials also warn that once bears become accustomed to human-provided food, they are more likely to return and can develop long-term behavioral changes.
No incidents or injuries have been reported in connection with the sighting.
