Black bear sighted strolling around Prescott Valley on way to park
May 20, 2021, 4:30 PM | Updated: 10:13 pm
(Courtesy photo/Prescott Valley Police Department)
(Courtesy photo/Prescott Valley Police Department)
PHOENIX — Residents of Prescott Valley began their Thursday morning with an unusual guest – a black bear strolling around.
Police say they were notified of the bear around 7:30 a.m. in the area of Northridge and Navajo, and the bear was thought to be headed to nearby Fain Park due to the availability of water.
Arizona Game and Fish have been notified of the sighting, according to a press release, but the bear has not presented any problems at this time.
People are asked to remember that black bears are wild animals and attracted by the availability of food such as household garbage, birdseed, pet foot and even fruit trees.
Authorities also advise people never to feed wildlife or approach the bear as they usually want to avoid people.
Those who see the bear in the distance should alter their route to avoid the bear.
People are asked to call the Arizona Game and Fish 24-hour hotline at 1-800-352-0700 if the bear becomes aggressive or is a danger to you or others.
Drought and wildfires can result in the bears wandering out of their normal territory, according to the release.
