BEAR SIGHTING--CROTON

The Village of Croton-on-Hudson Police Department has received black bear sightings this week. The last report was on Cleveland Drive near Gerstein St. According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), black bears are transient occupants of Westchester County, and their movement increases in June as breeding season begins and young bears disperse to find their own space. They are most often not dangerous to humans, however if they become conditioned to human presence, or feel threatened, they can become so.

If you see a bear, do not approach it. If possible remain indoors, or in a safe location, until it leaves the area. If a bear is damaging property or is reluctant to leave the area, but the situation is not an emergency, call the DEC regional wildlife office during business hours at (845) 256-3098. When a nuisance bear presents an immediate danger to public safety, call 911