03/28/2026
BEAR BEAWARE.....
This young lady has been reported to be hanging around the rail trail in the area approximately 150 yards north of the Congamond Road crossing. Officers went out to that location this morning and located the bear. It appears she has a den approximately 30 yards off of the trail, on the Berkshire Road side (East side of trail). It does appear there is at least one cub in the den, however, there could be others.
Due to the proximity to the rail trail and that fact there is cubs involved, Sgt. Krutka has been in contact with both the Environmental Police as well as Mass Wildlife. A representative from Mass Wildlife stated with the uptick in foot traffic now that the weather is beginning to break, he believes the bear will relocate the cub(s) to a more desolated area.
If you utilize the rail trial in this area, please keep your eyes open and if the bear(s) are spotted, please do not attempt to get close to them for a photograph. If the bear(s) is on the trail, it is strongly advised you slowly turn around and proceed in the opposite direction.
Black bears, when they encounter their human counterparts, will normally not pay much attention to you and will go about their business, however, If the bear feels threatened or cubs are in the area, they will protect their cubs.
A black bear will often give out warnings before engaging in any kind of aggressive behavior, this would include a heavy huff, a clicking noise or will offer a bluff charge while huffing and stomping his/hers front paws into the ground. If you encounter these warnings, we strongly suggest you heed to them!!!
It is also suggested, you do not run as that can trigger a chase, turn and walk away briskly. Keep in mind, bears are surprisingly fast, Bears have been known to run in excess of 35 mph; you WILL NOT out run a bear!!!!
The Southwick Police Department and Mass Wildlife will be monitoring the situation. If and when any updates on the bears become available, we will share them.
Thank you for your cooperation.
