Waltham got an early taste of bear season this week when a black bear ambled onto a homeowner's back deck, casually stood up to inspect a table, and unknowingly starred in a Ring doorbell video now making the rounds online. City officials say they are aware of the sighting, which comes just as bears are starting to emerge from winter dens in search of food.
As reported by Boston 25 News, the clip, credited to Wes O'Connor, shows the bear strolling up onto the deck and then rising on its hind legs to peer at what is on the table. The Waltham mayor's office told the outlet it had seen photos and was aware of the recent bear activity.
State wildlife officials say the timing fits the usual pattern. According to MassWildlife, black bears typically den in winter and then come out between early March and mid-April, and the state's black bear population has been growing and extending eastward. The agency notes that "removal of food sources and other attractants is key to preventing problems with bears."
Why backyard bears are turning up
Young males and dispersing bears are the most likely to wander east of their traditional range while hunting for calories, and suburban neighborhoods can look like easy buffets. Once a bear finds bird seed, trash, or pet food, it is likely to remember the spot and come back, which raises the chances of property damage or a risky close encounter.
How to keep bears out of your yard
At the first sign of bear activity, take down bird feeders, keep garbage in sturdy secured containers or indoors until pickup, and do not leave pet food outside. For chickens and beehives, a properly installed electric fence is the most reliable deterrent. Cleaning grills and keeping food scraps indoors also cuts down on attractants that might tempt a roaming bear.
If you encounter a bear
Give the animal space, keep dogs leashed, and back away slowly. Do not run and do not try to approach or follow the bear. If a bear acts aggressively or repeatedly returns to the same property, contact local police on the non-emergency line and report the situation to the state wildlife agency so officials can decide whether further action is needed.
The Ring camera visit in Waltham is one more sign that as bears expand into suburban areas, they are learning to check out backyards as potential snack stops. Officials stress that prevention, especially securing trash, bird seed, and other attractants now, is the best way to keep curious bears from turning a quiet deck into their regular hangout.
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