Chester County Bear Spotted In Willistown, Believed to Be Same Animal

Multiple reports were received by police in Willistown Township on Friday of a black bear moving through backyards in the area, authorities said.

Police believe it to be the same bear that was seen in Westtown Township over Labor Day weekend.

Authorities reiterated that residents should not be alarmed and that the Pennsylvania Game Commission is aware of the sightings.

The photo above was taken by a resident on Jaffery Road in Willistown.

The National Park Service offers the following tips for what to do if you see a black bear:

• Remain watchful.
• Do not approach it
• Do not allow the bear to approach you.
• If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior (stops feeding, changes its travel direction, watches you, etc.) you are too close.
• Being too close may promote aggressive behavior from the bear such as running toward you, making loud noises, or swatting the ground. The bear is demanding more space. Don't run, but slowly back away, watching the bear. Increase the distance between you and the bear. The bear will probably do the same.
• If a bear persistently follows or approaches you, without vocalizing, or paw swatting:
• Change your direction.
• If the bear continues to follow you, stand your ground.
• If the bear gets closer, talk loudly or shout at it.
• Act aggressively to intimidate the bear.

Image via Willistown Police.