GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. – A Green Cove Springs neighborhood is on high alert after a bear was sighted several times Thursday. News4Jax spoke with residents about the sightings and with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission about how to protect yourself and your property from bears.
Police were called to Cypress Avenue and followed a bear through several backyards near the Governor's Creek Bridge, then along St. Johns Avenue, where it was last seen in a wooded area behind a church that borders the river.
Aubrey Bellamy witnessed the furry intruder.
“We were just playing around and then we saw a bear running across the yard," Bellamy said.
He said it was cool seeing a real black bear running through his neighborhood, but others didn’t share his sentiment.
“I hope it won't happen again because, you know, there’s a lot of kids in the area. You wouldn’t want them to run into a bear when playing out here,” said neighborhood resident Antesia Kelly.
Kelly admits it was exciting for the kids, but if bears are going to be a problem then she’s going to need to be more prepared.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission says the best thing you can do is keep your trash secure. They suggest either purchasing a special anti-bear trash can, or simply spraying mace on your cans to deter an animal from wanting in. Or, you can store the can out of sight.
“You can just keep it in a sturdy shed or a garage until the morning of pick up,” said David Telesco of FWC black bear management.
“I've never given a thought about an anti-bear trash can, but if bears are going to be an issue, that's a good idea,” said Kelly.
I you want to learn more about anti-bear trash cans click here.
"FWC biologist are onsite and working with local law enforcement to find the bear that’s been spotted in Green Cove Springs. Residents in the area should remain vigilant and can help deter the bear by removing attractants and keeping pets on a leash. The best outcome is for the bear to return to its natural habitat. We will continue to have an elevated presence in the area as our focus remains the safety of the public. Please go to myfwc.com/bear for more information about Florida’s growing black bear population and FWC’s Comprehensive Bear Management Program.” – Susan Smith