A black bear was spotted last Friday in Cape Coral\u2019s Westin on SW 57th Street, sparking both excitement and concern among residents.<\/p>\n
Multiple surveillance cameras captured the bear roaming the area, leading the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) to confirm that black bears are not uncommon in Florida.<\/p>\n
According to the FWC, it is typical to see increased bear activity during spring and summer as juvenile bears leave their mothers to find new territories.<\/p>\n
The FWC advised residents to give bears space, avoid feeding them and secure food sources to prevent them from lingering.<\/p>\n
In a statement, the FWC emphasized:<\/p>\n
Juvenile black bears may be seen in unexpected areas during the spring and summer as they disperse from their mothersIncreased bear activity is normal during this seasonIf you see a bear, give it space and do not feed itBears are usually not aggressive, but incidents with dogs have occurred, so keep pets close<\/p>\n
Although Cape Coral is not commonly known for bear activity, bear sightings can occur in suburban and urban areas during these seasons.<\/p>\n