Overview
- Multiple residents and police reported sightings of a black bear near the Avon–Randolph line, with photos shared of the animal at a hummingbird feeder.
- Park officials moved up a planned Fourth of July closing on Friday after the reported sightings and shut gates at D.W. Field Park to keep visitors away while the animal is monitored.
- Avon and Brockton animal control, Randolph police, MassWildlife, and the Massachusetts Environmental Police are coordinating to track reports and observe the bear.
- Officials say there is no known threat to the public, no injuries or capture have been reported, and residents should call local police or MEP to report new sightings.
- MassWildlife estimates more than 4,500 black bears statewide and says the species is expanding eastward, so officials recommend removing bird feeders, securing trash, supervising pets, and using electric fencing for livestock to reduce future conflicts.