Bear sightings on Robins no cause for alarm
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --
In the past couple of weeks, numerous people have reported seeing a black bear in the area between the commissary and Marchbanks Drive.
Bob Sargent, natural resources manager at Robins, said approximately 10 people reported seeing a black bear in that area, usually in the early morning. All of the sightings are believed to be of a single female bear with one or two cubs.
Sargent emphasized black bears are timid creatures, posing little threat to humans. Black bear attacks are very rare, and when attacks happen, it's usually because people are bothering the bear or a cub.
"People shouldn't be alarmed but they should be cautious," he said. "By all means don't feed it."
He said people who live on base should warn their children about bears. Also, he said it's important for people to follow the base leash law. When people are out walking a dog not on a leash, the dog could see the bear and chase it.
"That could turn out very bad for the dog and for the owner who tries to save the dog," Sargent said.
He is hoping the bear will leave by itself. People can help by not leaving food out and making sure trash cans are secure and dumpster doors are closed.
If anyone sees a bear on base, they should call the 78th Security Forces law enforcement desk at 926-2187.
Bob Sargent, natural resources manager at Robins, said approximately 10 people reported seeing a black bear in that area, usually in the early morning. All of the sightings are believed to be of a single female bear with one or two cubs.
Sargent emphasized black bears are timid creatures, posing little threat to humans. Black bear attacks are very rare, and when attacks happen, it's usually because people are bothering the bear or a cub.
"People shouldn't be alarmed but they should be cautious," he said. "By all means don't feed it."
He said people who live on base should warn their children about bears. Also, he said it's important for people to follow the base leash law. When people are out walking a dog not on a leash, the dog could see the bear and chase it.
"That could turn out very bad for the dog and for the owner who tries to save the dog," Sargent said.
He is hoping the bear will leave by itself. People can help by not leaving food out and making sure trash cans are secure and dumpster doors are closed.
If anyone sees a bear on base, they should call the 78th Security Forces law enforcement desk at 926-2187.
