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Bear Sighting Reported In Fishkill

FISHKILL, N.Y. -- A Fishkill resident who was dreaming that her bird feeders were being destroyed woke up to find a black bear rummaging around for snacks in her backyard, according to a report by The Poughkeepsie Journal.

Human-bear conflicts can be avoided by doing simple things like taking bird feeders in after April 1 and securing garbage cans in garages or sheds, the state Department of Environmental Conservation says.

Human-bear conflicts can be avoided by doing simple things like taking bird feeders in after April 1 and securing garbage cans in garages or sheds, the state Department of Environmental Conservation says.

Photo Credit: www.dec.ny.gov

Chris Kostek, who lives in a townhouse development, told The Poughkeepsie Journal that, to date, squirrels had been the only critters raiding her feeders.

The bear had actually bent a steel rod holding the feeder so he, or she, could access the tasty treats, The Poughkeepsie Journal reported.

Police in Ulster County’s Lloyd also received reports of black bear sightings Monday and earlier this month, foraging bruins were spotted in Dutchess County’s LaGrange and Beacon, The Poughkeepsie Journal story said.

According to the state Department of Environmental Conservation, the leading cause of such complaints in the state is bears getting into garbage cans or bird feeders.

Humans are continually encroaching on the territory of wildlife such as bears, which must roam around as their seasonal food sources change.

No every bear, the DEC said, that passes through developed areas is a “problem bear,” but can become one if the pickings are too easy.

Humans can avoid unwanted encounters with the hungry beasts by taking a few simple steps, the DEC said.

These include:

  • Removing bird feeders after April 1.
  • Keeping garbage cans inside a sturdy building such as a garage or shed.
  • Masking garbage odors with ammonia-soaked rags.
  • Not putting meat or bones in a compost pile.
  • Removing grease and food particles from outdoor grills after every use.
  • Never leaving pet food outside.

The DEC also has tips for keeping humans safe while camping or hiking and bears away from their food.

For more of the DEC’s advice on reducing human-bear conflicts, click here.

To read The Poughkeepsie Journal story, click here.

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