The Department is reaching out because for the past couple of weeks what appears to be a 2-3 year old male black bear has been roaming about Bristol and Plymouth Counties (last observed yesterday late afternoon on Spring Street in Hanson). Many of you are likely already aware of this, but we thought it would be helpful to send out some useful links/information that you can share on how to live with bears. Although bears are very common in other parts of the State, they are a relatively infrequent visitors to this part of Massachusetts and many residents do not know the proper steps to take to avoid conflicts with bears. The most common issues people will have is with bird feeders, improperly stored trash or compost piles, backyard chickens/ducks and apiaries. The links below provide a wealth of information.
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/learn-about-black-bears
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/prevent-conflicts-with-black-bears