Oxford police are warning residents to keep a close watch on their pets and young children and to be more vigilant while outside because of a black bear roaming around town.
The bear was seen roaming around the area of Prospect Street in North Oxford, police wrote in a Facebook post. The bear was searching bird feeders and trash trying to find food.
“This isn’t Yogi the Bear!” police wrote on Tuesday night. “Let’s be safe Oxford, and be careful.”
Then, on Wednesday morning, the bear was seen again, this time near 30 Prospect St., police said.
The department also provided safety tips for residents, including a warning not to approach or try to feed the bear.
“Black bears are generally not aggressive but can become dangerous if they feel threatened or are looking for food,” police wrote. “Keep a safe distance and do not run if you encounter a bear. Instead, back away slowly and make loud noises to scare it away.”
Residents are also encouraged to keep their trash closed and secured in “bear-proof” containers and avoid leaving food scraps outside.
Bird feeders should be removed at the first sign of bear activity, or hung at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from somewhere bears could climb, according to police.
“Let’s work together to keep our community safe and our local wildlife wild,” police wrote.
Anyone who sees a bear should call Oxford Police at 508-987-0156.
