Community Corner

Black Bear Spotted in Stow

A Facebook user said there was a sighting near Stow's dog park.

Someone reported seeing a black bear in the city Monday morning, according to the Stow Police Department

The bear was last seen approximately 8 a.m. west of SR 91 in the Heather Hills neighborhood.

A social media user also posted on the BowWow Beach Facebook group that there was a sighting near his home and close to Stow's dog park:

"Well there has been a sighting of a black bear two blocks from our house this morning. That noise I heard last night I thought was a raccoon, but who knows???? This is very close to Bow Wow Beach, so watch your dogs coming and going in the park." 

"Black bears are native to Ohio and there were more than 200 black bear sightings in Ohio in 2012. They are on the states endangered species list and all black bears in Ohio are protected by state law," according to a prepared statement issued on Facebook

Black bears are usually fearful of people and do not attack or kill adults, children or pets as long as the bear is given its space and not cornered.

People should keep their distance and remain calm if they see a bear. DO NOT APPROACH IT, the police department warns. 

To report observations of black bears, call 1-800-945-3543. For more information about Ohio’s Black Bears, visit www.wildohio.com


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