Apparently, fast food is a “bear” necessity

Douglas County authorities say a black bear was spotted near a McDonald’s restaurant on Thornton Road in Lithia Springs on Thursday night, following an earlier sighting in a nearby neighborhood.

“It was sighted earlier in the week on somebody’s doorbell camera wandering through the neighborhood,” said Douglas County Emergency Management Director James Queen. “We think it’s the same one.”

“Leave it alone,” he added. “Don’t approach it. As long as people stay away from it, we’re not going to have any issues.”

Officials said no attacks or encounters with humans have been reported.

“Bears prefer to avoid people whenever possible, but bears are powerful wild animals and may defend themselves when surprised or feeling threatened,” according to the website BearWise.org.

The website says April is when most bears end their hibernation and leave their dens in search of food. They often return to places where they have found a meal before.

“As expected, bears are going to be hungry when they emerge from their winter dens, and that means getting easy-to-obtain food as soon as possible,” said Adam Hammond, a biologist with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. “Don’t let your home become a bear buffet.”

Anyone who spots the bear is encouraged to call 911 or Douglas County Animal Services at 770-942-5961.

Residents are strongly advised not to approach, touch, attempt to capture or otherwise interfere with the bear. Wild animals can be unpredictable, and maintaining a safe distance is critical for both public safety and the animal’s well-being.

Douglas County Animal Services encouraged residents to take the following precautions:

• Secure trash cans and, when possible, keep them out of outdoor areas.

• Remove or closely monitor outdoor pet feeding stations.

• Eliminate any accessible food sources that may attract wildlife.

Bear activity in populated areas is common this time of year, particularly at night, as bears search for food. Residents are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and take proactive measures to protect themselves and their pets.