Residents report bear encounters, prompting Animal Control warning

Numerous close encounters with a black bear roaming through Massachusetts towns prompted the closure of a large park and a warning for the region from Animal Control officials.Holbrook/Avon Animal Control said several Avon and Randolph residents reported seeing and photographing the bear Wednesday night near Route 28 and North Main Street along the Avon-Randolph town line. Additional sightings were confirmed by Animal Control officers in the area of DeMarco Park and D.W. Field Park on Thursday.On Friday, Avon police announced the closure of DW Field Parkway and the gates at South Street because of the bear sighting. DW Field Park was closed. “For your safety, please stay out of the park and avoid the area until further notice,” police wrote. “This will allow authorities and wildlife officials to safely handle the situation and do what they need to do.”NewsCenter 5 visited the communities on Friday and heard stories about additional sightings as the bear continues to search for food. One woman, who flagged down a NewsCenter 5 photographer, said a bear had crossed the street in front of her car. Officials asked the communities to use caution, even if they haven’t seen the animal in person. Any sightings should be reported to Animal Control at 617-639-7982 or Massachusetts Environmental Police at 800-632-8075. “If seen, do not try to approach or follow the bear. Also, keep a close watch on pets, secure trash barrels, chicken coops, and remove bird feeders until the bear moves through the area,” Animal Control officials wrote.Additionally, officials advised that 911 should only be called if an immediate emergency response is needed.

AVON, Mass. —

Numerous close encounters with a black bear roaming through Massachusetts towns prompted the closure of a large park and a warning for the region from Animal Control officials.

Holbrook/Avon Animal Control said several Avon and Randolph residents reported seeing and photographing the bear Wednesday night near Route 28 and North Main Street along the Avon-Randolph town line.

Additional sightings were confirmed by Animal Control officers in the area of DeMarco Park and D.W. Field Park on Thursday.

On Friday, Avon police announced the closure of DW Field Parkway and the gates at South Street because of the bear sighting. DW Field Park was closed.

“For your safety, please stay out of the park and avoid the area until further notice,” police wrote. “This will allow authorities and wildlife officials to safely handle the situation and do what they need to do.”

NewsCenter 5 visited the communities on Friday and heard stories about additional sightings as the bear continues to search for food. One woman, who flagged down a NewsCenter 5 photographer, said a bear had crossed the street in front of her car.

Officials asked the communities to use caution, even if they haven’t seen the animal in person. Any sightings should be reported to Animal Control at 617-639-7982 or Massachusetts Environmental Police at 800-632-8075.

“If seen, do not try to approach or follow the bear. Also, keep a close watch on pets, secure trash barrels, chicken coops, and remove bird feeders until the bear moves through the area,” Animal Control officials wrote.

Additionally, officials advised that 911 should only be called if an immediate emergency response is needed.