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-Information courtesy the City of Oxford
There have been several bear sightings in the City of Oxford recently. Here are a few bear safety tips to help avoid confrontation:
*If you see a bear, remain calm and leave it alone. Never feed, approach or surround a bear.
*If you absolutely must feed your pets outside, make sure all food is consumed and empty bowls are removed.
*Clean all food and grease from barbecue grills after each use.
*Keep birdseed, bird feeders and hummingbird feeders where a bear can’t reach.
*If a bear is in the area, remove all bird feeders — even those advertised as “bear-proof.”
*Don’t leave birdseed outside.
*Keep trash cans stored in a garage, basement or other secured areas, if possible.
*Look into purchasing bear-proof garbage cans or garbage enclosures.
*Keep all garbage sites clean.
Bear sightings are quite normal during this time of the year when bears are starting to forage for food and look for mates. The black bear is the only species found in North Carolina and tend to be shy and non-aggressive toward humans, but if frequently fed, bears can become dependent on human food, leading to more interactions with people.
If you encounter a bear that is not aware of your presence, back away and leave the area. Give the bear plenty of room.
If you spot a bear cub, remain alert. The cub’s mother is sure to be near, state officials say.
If you meet a bear at close range, speak to it in a calm, assertive voice, wildlife experts advice, “Stay calm and do not run. Remain upright and back away from the bear. Avoid direct eye contact, which the bear may perceive as a threat.”