Bear and cub spotted roaming near busy road in New City sparking safety alerts
NEW CITY, NY – Residents in a quiet Rockland County neighborhood got an unexpected surprise Saturday morning as a black bear and its cub were spotted roaming near the intersection of Squadron Boulevard and Route 304, prompting multiple calls to police and a public safety advisory.
The Clarkstown Police Department confirmed that dispatchers received several sightings of the bear duo throughout the morning, with the most recent visual placing them near a well-traveled section of New City. While no direct encounters have been reported, officers and state wildlife officials are monitoring the area closely.
Authorities emphasized that black bears are a natural part of New York’s wildlife ecosystem and typically avoid human interaction, but the presence of cubs can make the animals more unpredictable. In response to the sightings, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) issued guidance for area homeowners to reduce the chances of unwanted bear encounters.
Residents are urged to secure garbage, bring pet food and birdseed indoors, and avoid leaving garage doors or ground-level windows open overnight. Dog owners with invisible fences are also advised to keep pets leashed in areas where the bear has been seen.
There have been no reports of aggressive behavior or property damage, and police say they will continue monitoring the area and issuing updates if necessary.
Key Points
- A bear and cub were seen near Squadron Blvd. and Route 304 in New City on Saturday morning.
- Clarkstown Police issued safety guidance following multiple sightings.
- DEC urges residents to secure garbage and pet food to prevent bear encounters.