Black bears return

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sergio A. Gamboa
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Florida black bears are back at it again roaming Tyndall searching for what food their noses bring them to.

"We estimate there are one to two dozen bears on Tyndall in any given year including resident adults, sows with cubs and juveniles moving through the area," said Wendy Jones, 325th Civil Engineer Squadron's Natural Resources wildlife biologist.

Black bears can smell food, garbage and pet food from more than a mile away. If they are rewarded with an easy meal, they are more likely to come back again.

"Bears are very active this time of year, so we're trying to lean forward and provide information to residents before the bears become a nuisance," said Capt. Nick Thomas, 325th CES Installation Management Flight commander.

Florida black bears are most active during March through November from dusk to dawn.


To help avoid contact with bears, the following is recommended:

· Use lock bars or door clips on dumpsters

· Do not put garbage cans out at night

· Keep garage doors closed

· Bird feeders are not allowed in housing

· Do not leave pet food outside

· Thoroughly clean barbeque grills or store them in garage


In the event of encountering a bear, make loud noises like clapping, shouting and stand your ground. Raise your arms to appear larger, back up slowly and try not to run away. Also make sure the bear has an escape route.


According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission:

· Make noise, bang pots and pans or honk your horn to scare the bear away.

· Do not turn your back, play dead, climb a tree or run. Back away slowly into the house or secure area.

· Avoid direct eye contact. Bears and many other animals may view this as aggressive behavior.

· If the bear climbs a tree, it is frightened and will not come down until the perceived threats are removed. Move all pets and people indoors and turn off outdoor lights.


Call the 325th Fighter Wing Security Forces Squadron at 283-2254 if a bear won't leave, is in a populated area, getting into dumpsters and trash cans and acting aggressive.