North Park got an uninvited swimmer Tuesday afternoon when a black bear was spotted cutting across the lake in McCandless Township, giving walkers, kayakers and dog-walkers an unexpected wildlife show. Witnesses said the bear swam to the far shore, climbed out, and disappeared into the tree line, while park staff and wildlife officers stayed on alert and visitors wisely kept a wide berth.
As reported by WPXI, Allegheny County Parks posted on social media, urging visitors to give the bear "plenty of space" and to keep pets leashed and under control while the Pennsylvania Game Commission monitors the sighting. The station said the encounter unfolded in the lake inside North Park in McCandless Township and drew attention from people onshore.
What wildlife officials advise
The Pennsylvania Game Commission reminds the public that black bears are wild, can swim, and will usually avoid people; the agency recommends keeping a safe distance and removing food attractants. The Game Commission also asks people to report unusual or persistent sightings to its centralized dispatch at 1-833-PGC-WILD, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Those reports help wildlife staff determine whether an animal needs to be relocated or otherwise managed.
A wave of local sightings
The North Park sighting follows other recent encounters in the Pittsburgh area, including a June 15 Summer Hill sighting that Summer Hill On Edge covered, illustrating how young or dispersing bears sometimes show up in suburban pockets. Neighborhood videos and local coverage have prompted reminders to secure trash, take down bird feeders, and keep pets inside during active sightings. Officials say simple precautions are the best defense against repeat visits.
At the park
North Park is Allegheny County’s largest park and features a 66-acre lake and miles of trails; park staff says they will monitor conditions while the bear moves through. Visitors planning to come should heed the county’s guidance and give wildlife space, especially when walking dogs near the shoreline. For more information about park amenities and directions, see Allegheny County's North Park page.
