SWANSEA, MA — Swansea police are warning residents after a black bear was reported near the 200 block of Marvel Street and Hemingway Drive. Two nearby residents spotted the animal, and animal control along with Massachusetts Environmental Police were notified. Police say the bear should be left alone and observed from a safe distance.

At a glance

• Animal: Black bear
• Where: The 200 block of Marvel Street and Hemingway Drive in Swansea
• When: Reported a short time ago by two residents
• What happened: Police said the bear was seen in the area and officials were notified
• Status: Swansea Animal Control and Massachusetts Environmental Police have been informed
• Anyone hurt: No injuries were reported

What happened

The Swansea Police Department said residents reported a black bear in the area of Marvel Street and Hemingway Drive. According to police, two separate residents saw the animal around the same time.

Police said the sighting was passed along to Swansea Animal Control and the Massachusetts Environmental Police. The bear was not reported as captured or moved in the notice shared with residents.

Authorities are urging people in the area to stay alert and give the animal room. Police emphasized that black bears usually try to avoid people, but they can become a problem if someone approaches too closely or leaves food available.

Residents were also told to call 911 if the bear presents an immediate danger to public safety. In the meantime, officials want people to keep pets supervised and let the bear move on without interference.

About the animal

Black bears are the most common bear species in North America, and adults can be large, powerful animals with thick fur, rounded ears and a straight face profile. Their color can range from black to brown, cinnamon or even blond, depending on the animal and region.

They are omnivores, which means they eat a wide range of foods. In the wild, black bears feed on berries, nuts, insects, grasses and carrion, and they will also take advantage of bird feeders, unsecured trash and pet food when those items are available.

Black bears live in parts of Massachusetts, including wooded and suburban areas where habitat overlaps with neighborhoods. They usually try to avoid people, but they can become unpredictable if startled, cornered or rewarded with food.

If you encounter one

Wildlife officials generally advise people to stay calm and back away slowly if they see a bear. Do not run, approach, feed or try to move the animal. Keep watching it while creating distance, and do not block any path it may use to leave.

Keep children close and pets under control, and use a leash if you have a dog. Officials also recommend bringing bird feeders and pet food indoors, securing trash cans and removing outdoor food sources that could draw a bear closer to homes.

If a bear is in a tree, do not stand below it or gather nearby to watch. Give the animal space and let it come down on its own. If the bear is acting aggressively or threatens public safety, call 911 or contact local animal control and the state wildlife agency.

What happens next

Police have not announced any capture or relocation, and residents in the area have been asked to remain cautious. The bear may simply continue through the neighborhood if it is not disturbed.

For now, officials are focusing on public awareness and basic bear-safety steps so the animal can move through the area undisturbed.

Spotted a dangerous animal where you live? Report it to your state wildlife agency or local animal control.