News Summary
Recent black bear sightings in Greenwood County have raised concerns among local residents and prompted authorities to issue safety guidelines. Video footage of a bear scavenging for food has circulated, with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources urging residents to secure food sources to avoid attracting these animals. As sightings become more frequent, understanding bear behavior and taking preventive measures is crucial for community safety.
Greenwood, SC – Recent black bear sightings in Greenwood County have prompted local authorities to advise residents to take preventive measures to secure food sources that may attract these animals. Video footage of a bear dining behind a car wash on Laurel Avenue has circulated among residents, sparking increased awareness of the bear population in the area. According to reports, the bear was observed eating what appeared to be a container of applesauce, highlighting its attraction to human food sources.
The Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that this bear and others have mainly been sighted within the city limits of Greenwood. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is actively monitoring the situation, encouraging the public to remain vigilant in light of these increased encounters. Sightings include an incident where a black bear was spotted swimming near Harris Landing on Lake Greenwood, much to the delight of families enjoying a day at the lake.
The phenomenon of increased bear sightings is not unexpected, as DNR biologist Tammy Waldrop has noted that black bear sightings in Greenwood County have been on the rise annually over the past decade. Black bears are opportunistic feeders, often drawn to easy food sources, which can include items such as deer corn, bird feeders, and unsecured trash cans. They typically follow riverbeds and have been tracked as far south as Aiken, SC, emphasizing their presence across the region.
In an effort to manage bear sightings, local authorities have issued guidelines for residents. Residents are urged to take specific precautions, such as removing bird feeders and ensuring that trash is securely sealed. These steps are vital in reducing the likelihood of encounters with bears looking for food. The sheriff’s office has also reported another sighting at a pizza restaurant’s parking lot on SC-72, reiterating the need for public safety and the importance of not approaching a bear if seen.
Officials emphasize that black bears generally are not aggressive. Their primary motivation for entering urban areas is food, rather than seeking interaction with humans. They are more likely to retreat when confronted, as long as humans respect their space. Nevertheless, local residents are encouraged to report any bear sightings promptly to local animal control or the DNR to ensure public safety and the well-being of the bear population.
In summary, the increasing frequency of black bear sightings in Greenwood County highlights the need for community awareness and responsibility. By taking preventive measures to secure food sources and understanding bear behavior, residents can help mitigate potential conflicts with these wildlife in their neighborhoods. The DNR is dedicated to monitoring the situation carefully, ensuring that both residents and bears coexist safely in the region.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Black Bear Spotted Swimming in Lake Greenwood
Canine Visitors on the Rise in South Carolina Homes
Additional Resources
- WSPA: Bear Sighted in Greenwood County
- Index Journal: Black Bear Seen Swimming in Lake Greenwood
- Fox Carolina: Watch Bear Spotted Eating Behind Upstate Car Wash
- North Jersey: NJ Weekend Wildfires – What You Should Know
- News 12: Officers Search Greenwood Lake for Bear
- Google Search: Black Bear Behavior
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
