A bear sighting was reported near Regent Street in Saratoga Springs on Tuesday morning, prompting an early morning search by a DEC environmental conservation officer. Although the bear was not found, the DEC confirmed it wouldn’t be unusual for bears to be active in the area this time of year.
The DEC explained that young bears, especially one-year-old males, are dispersing from their birth areas now. This seasonal movement can sometimes lead them into unexpected locations like residential neighborhoods. In fact, a young black bear was recently captured on Second Avenue in Albany, highlighting this trend across the region.
While seeing a bear can be surprising, remember to report non-emergency sightings to a DEC regional wildlife office or the dispatch center at 1-844-332-3267. Only call 911 if a bear poses an immediate risk to public safety.