On Point: Polk News Beat - July 22, 2022
It's time to get on point! ๐๐ฏ
This week's topics: โ
โข Primary Elections August 23
โข TRIM Notices Arrive Mid-August
โข New Interim Fire Chief
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BEAR TAKES A STROLL DOWNTOWN!
We often forget that all of our neighbors don't walk on two feet. Haines City residents reported seeing a Florida Black Bear downtown yesterday. No need to panic, though, as bears generally avoid people and can usually be scared off by using sudden loud noises. But remember, bears are wild animals and should be treated with caution. Bears are very food-driven and spend a good part of their time looking for food. If you see a black bear it is likely looking for something to eat.
State wildlife officials don't recommend relocating bears that have not harmed humans. Once relocated, the bear will try to return to the food source or another bear likely will take its place. The best way to remove a bear from an area is to remove the food sources. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says it does not intend to trap this particular bear at this time.
The FWC recommends the following:
- Secure household garbage in a shed, garage or a wildlife-resistant container (like a bear-resistant container or caddy).
- Put household garbage out on morning of pickup rather than the night before.
- Secure commercial garbage in bear-resistant dumpsters.
- Protect gardens, beehives, compost and livestock with electric fencing.
- Encourage your homeowners association or local government to institute ordinances on keeping foods that attract wildlife secure.
- Feed pets indoors or bring in dishes after feeding.
- Clean grills and store them in a locked, secure place.
- Remove wildlife feeders or make them bear-resistant.
- Pick ripe fruit from trees and remove fallen fruit from the ground - bears love fruit!
- Screened enclosures ARE NOT SECURE and WILL NOT keep bears out.
Our thanks to the residents who reported the bear to us and to Jonathan Anglin for shooting the video. Speaking of shooting a bear, the FWC says the only reason to shoot a bear is if it going to harm a human. According to Rhonda Latour, senior wildlife biologist with the FWC,
