GREENFIELD — A rare black bear sighting in Greenfield prompted a police response Wednesday night after residents reported seeing the animal near Pine Avenue.
Officers located what appeared to be a young black bear that had climbed a tree, according to the Greenfield Police Department.
“This behavior is typical in bears who are frightened or attempting to avoid perceived threats,” police said in a statement Thursday.
Authorities consulted with California State Parks and California Department of Fish and Wildlife personnel, who advised the bear was not aggressive and posed no danger to the public. No intervention was recommended, police said.
Wildlife officials noted that black bears are native to Monterey County and occasionally pass through populated areas, often continuing on their own if left undisturbed.
Officers contacted residents in the immediate area to notify them of the sighting and conducted patrol checks. About an hour later, the bear had left the area on its own.
“Some may wonder why the bear was not captured and relocated. Wildlife officials advised that the bear was not aggressive and was behaving naturally. Because of this, intervention was not necessary,” police explained.
Residents are advised not to approach, feed or interact with wildlife, or attempt to take close-up photos or videos, and to keep children and pets at a safe distance. Officials recommend giving animals space to leave the area on their own.
Anyone encountering an animal that appears aggressive or poses an immediate threat to public safety should call 911.
“We are happy this incident ended safely for our community members and the bear,” Greenfield police said.
