In Could, an elusive black bear was noticed in a number of completely different Massachusetts cities and cities operating — and typically swimming — away from authorities. Now, Newton is having its personal black bear encounter.

Newton police suggested residents Sunday to be vigilant after video footage circulated of a black bear operating via a yard close to Chilly Springs Park.

Footage reveals the bear passing via somebody’s entrance yard in Newton Highlands, police say. Additionally they informed folks to steer clear of the bear and phone the non-emergency line at 617-796-2123 for assist.

Officers are watching the positioning the place the bear was seen, and Environmental Police have been notified.

Police made no indication that this was the identical bear that evaded authorities in Could, and different cities and cities have had their share of unrelated black bear sightings, together with Franklin, Mansfield, and Northampton.

Bear sightings are usually not uncommon for the state, which noticed a growth within the black bear inhabitants final 12 months.

The Massachusetts Division of Wildlife and Fisheries says that whereas the state is without doubt one of the most densely populated within the nation, the growing black bear inhabitants means an growth of territory. Black bears, which used to reside within the Berkshires, at the moment are extra more likely to crop up within the japanese a part of the state.

To discourage black bears from sticking round, MassWidlife suggests eliminating chicken feeders, eradicating trash, and eradicating different attractants, corresponding to cleansing outside barbecues and grills after every use. And in the event you so spot a bear, depart it alone.