ROCKVILLE, Md. — A small black bear spotted in around Rockville Thursday night has been captured, according to officials. Authorities say the bear was initially seen in the area of King Farm Boulevard and College Parkway. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources captured the bear Sunday. DNR believes the single bear is the one that was sighted in several Montgomery County locations over the past week.
A DNR spokesperson tells WUSA9 the bear is being tagged and will be released to a more suitable location to be determined, likely in the northwest part of Montgomery County, away from any residential areas. Rockville City Police posted video of them capturing the bear on Twitter.
According to DNR, they were prompted to leave a trap in the area after the owner of some beehives reported the bear lingering around his hives, likely looking for honey. As expected, the bear returned to the hives and was trapped.
Officials say the bear appears young. Its gender is not yet known.
The organization BearWise offers the following tips to keep yourself and your home safe from bears:
Never feed or approach bears:
Intentionally feeding bears or allowing them to find anything that smells or tastes like food teaches bears to approach homes and people looking for more. Bears will defend themselves if a person gets too close, so don't risk your safety and theirs.
Secure food, garbage and recycling:
Food and food odors attract bears, so don't reward them with easily available food, liquids and garbage.
Remove bird feeders when bears are active:
Birdseed and grans have lots of calories, so they're very attractive to bears. Removing feeders is the best way to avoid creating conflicts with bears.
Never leave pet food outdoors:
Feed pets indoors if possible. If you must feed pets outside, feed in single portions and remove food and bowls after feeding. Store pet food where bears can't see or smell it.
Clean and store grills:
Clean grills after each use and make sure that all grease, fat and food particles are removed. Store clean grills and smokers in a secure area that keeps bears out.
Alert neighbors to bear activity:
See bears in the area or evidence of bear activity? Tell your neighbors and share information on how to avoid bear conflicts.