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Black bear sightings map 2025
Carroll Valley, PA – Residents in Carroll Valley and Fairfield have reported multiple sightings of black bears over the past several days, prompting local authorities to issue reminders about safety and bear awareness as spring begins.
Several homeowners in both boroughs have encountered bears near their homes, with the animals seen foraging through trash bins, inspecting bird feeders, and in some cases, moving through residential yards in broad daylight.
According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the uptick in bear activity is typical for this time of year. As bears emerge from hibernation, they are in search of food and are drawn to easy sources like garbage, outdoor pet food, grills, and birdseed.
Officials recommend the following steps to reduce the chance of a bear encounter:
- Secure trash cans inside a garage or sturdy shed.
- Bring in bird feeders until late fall.
- Avoid leaving pet food outdoors.
- Clean grills after use and store them indoors if possible.
Residents who encounter a bear are urged not to approach it. Instead, they should back away slowly, make loud noises to scare it off if necessary, and report the sighting to local authorities or the Game Commission.
While black bears are native to Pennsylvania and not uncommon in wooded or semi-rural areas like Carroll Valley and Fairfield, sightings within residential neighborhoods remain notable and should be taken seriously.
No injuries or property damage have been reported in connection with the recent sightings.
For more information on living safely in bear country or to report a sighting, visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission website.
