10/14/2026
Wildlife Advisory - Wednesday, October 14, 2026
The Clinton Police Department has received a number of calls about the sightings of a black bear in the area of Woodruff Rd, Megan Circle, JFK Ave, etc. CPD Officers chased the bear back into the woods and advised the Massachusetts Environmental Police, who suggested we share some information about the increasing black bear population in the Commonwealth and some tips on how to help keep bears away.
Tips for residents
Bears that have been habituated (accustomed) and dependent on human-associated foods, such as bird seed, trash, and pet food, are likely to cause damage and become a nuisance. Removal of food sources and other attractants is key to preventing problems with bears.
Remove bird feeders
Bird feeders draw bears and other wildlife into residential areas and near people. There is no safe time of day or year to have bird feeders out. Bears that find bird feeders in backyards will start to look for other food sources, like backyard chickens, goats, and other small livestock. This can cause bears to lose their fear of people, which can lead to the bear being euthanized to ensure human health and safety. You should remove bird feeders at the first sign of bear activity and avoid leaving empty feeders out. Support local songbirds by growing native plants, shrubs, and trees and adding a water feature.
Protect chickens, bees, and small livestock
Standard coops or pens will not keep bears out. Use properly installed and maintained electric fencing to safeguard hives, coops, and pens. Keep open, mowed areas on all sides of hives and coops and do not locate them in abandoned areas or close to brushy, overgrown areas. Learn how to properly install an effective electric fence.
Secure trash and other attractants
Put trash cans out the morning of trash pickup, not the previous evening. Store all garbage in closed containers in a garage, outbuilding, or bear-resistant trash caddy. Using double bags or sprinkling with ammonia will help reduce odors. If you compost, do not throw meat scraps, greasy, oily, or sweet materials in your compost pile. Businesses, apartments, and campgrounds in areas with bear activity should invest in bear-resistant dumpsters with a locking lid. Trash should always be placed inside the dumpster and never left accessible to bears. Always feed pets indoors. Clean greasy barbecues and grills after each use. Do not leave food scraps, grease containers, or spilled grease in your yard.
If you are experiencing any problems with bears or have questions, visit:
MASS.GOV/BEARS OR CONTACT YOUR NEAREST MASSWILDLIFE OFFICE:
Central Wildlife District, West Boylston: (508) 835-3607
Connecticut Valley Wildlife District, Belchertown: (413) 323-7632
Northeast Wildlife District, Ayer: (978) 772-2145
Southeast Wildlife District, Bourne: (508) 759-3406
Western Wildlife District, Dalton: (413) 684-1646
Field Headquarters, Westborough: (508) 389-6300
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/learn-about-black-bears?_ga=2.121638093.798015468.1792013385-1623347836.1775598005&_gl=1*n3i4n4*_ga*MTYyMzM0NzgzNi4xNzc1NTk4MDA1*_ga_MCLPEGW7WM*czE3OTIwMTM0MDQkbzQkZzEkdDE3OTIwMTM0MDQkajYwJGwwJGgw
Black bears are becoming increasingly common in Massachusetts and are moving further to the east.
