Bear Sightings Increase Across Western Mass

With the warmer weather, animals, especially bears have left hibernation early and are in search of food.

While the species generally avoids humans, residents across the region have reported black bears on their properties in recent weeks.

Officials say garbage should be covered and secured, and all pet food and bird feeders should be brought inside.

An estimated five thousand black bears reside in the state.

(Photo by FREDERICK FLORIN/AFP via Getty Images)