Correction - Black Bear on Sanibel Sighted in Residential Areas
The adult black bear that has been observed at various conservation lands on Sanibel Island since July 2011 has recently been frequenting residential areas between Causeway Road and Dixie Beach Road
Sanibel, Florida
May 31, 2012
Contact: Natural Resources (239) 472-3700
Correction
Black Bear on Sanibel Sighted in Residential Areas -
Citizens & Visitors Advised to take Precautionary Measures
The adult black bear that has been observed at various conservation lands on Sanibel Island since July 2011 has recently been frequenting residential areas between Causeway Road and Dixie Beach Road.
The Sanibel Police and Natural Resources Departments advise residents and visitors to take precautionary measures to keep all food and garbage secured and stored inside, if possible. The State of Florida recommendations for residences within black bear habitat include:
• Storing trash in a secure area until morning of pickup
• Bringing pet food or any other food source inside
• Removing anything from your yard that could attract bears (anything that attracts dogs, cats or raccoons can attract bears)
Black bears are native to Florida and are protected under state law. Dwindling populations in Florida have caused this subspecies to be listed as “threatened” under the Florida Endangered and Threatened Species Statute. Pursuant to State law it is illegal to approach or harass this animal.
Please report any sightings of the black bear to the Sanibel Police at the non-emergency phone 239-472-3111, use #911 in case of a life threatening emergency.
Free educational brochures and magnets about “Living with Florida Black Bear” are available at Sanibel City Hall, 800 Dunlop Road.
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