Bear Sightings in Milton

There have been several bear sightings in Milton over the past several weeks. The Police Department believes the sightings are of one bear moving from the south end of the city to the north. The City would like to share a few bear safety tips from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and The Blue Ridge Highlander. All Milton residents are encouraged to educate themselves about bears and their behaviors. Please keep in mind that a black bear’s diet consists of whatever food is readily available at any given time including human and pet food, birdseed, beehives and compost piles.

Tips from GeorgiaWildlife.org

Keep items, such as grills, pet food or bird feeders off-limits to bears. Clean and store grills when not in use, keep pet food indoors.
Make sure trashcans are bear-proof or kept indoors.
When camping or picnicking, keep your site clean.

Tips from TheBlueRidgeHighlander.com

Anytime you see a bear:

Do not feed or toss food to a bear or any wild animal. Such activity is unlawful.
Keep children close at hand.
Keep pets indoors or in a vehicle or camper, and keep dogs on a lease; dogs will confront bears and may get serious injuries.
Do not approach a bear at anytime as they are dangerous and unpredictable.
Never surround or corner a bear.
Never run from a bear; slowly back away and make lots of noise.