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Black Bear Sightings Increase in Greenwood County

Black bear spotted near residential area in Greenwood County

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News Summary

In Greenwood County, reports of black bear sightings have surged, prompting local officials to issue a safety advisory. Residents detail encounters with bears in neighborhoods and around Lake Greenwood, indicating a link to urban development and a growing bear population. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources advises residents on safety measures, urging them to secure food sources that attract bears. The presence of black bears poses safety concerns for the community, with authorities monitoring the situation closely to prevent potential conflicts.

Greenwood, SC — Increased sightings of black bears in Greenwood County have prompted local authorities to issue a safety advisory. Residents have reported multiple encounters with bears in neighborhoods and near Lake Greenwood, indicating a potential rise in bear activity in the area. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) suggests that these sightings may correlate with urban development and an expanding bear population.

On June 21, 2025, a resident named Kevin Wisham spotted a black bear in his neighbor’s yard in the Beech Run subdivision. Following this encounter, another resident, Scott Armstrong, reported seeing a black bear on June 22 while he was refilling his bird feeders at the Barrington Apartments. In addition to these recent sightings, Brandy and Travis Poore have experienced multiple bear visits to their yard this summer. These encounters illustrate a pattern of bear activity that has concerned many residents.

The SCDNR recognizes that while black bear sightings are not common in the Upstate region, it is not unusual to see bears in residential areas, particularly in the Greenwood and Abbeville regions. According to regional coordinator Pat Cloninger, several factors contribute to increased bear sightings, including urban expansion and the availability of food sources that attract bears to neighborhoods.

Bears are typically drawn to easy food sources, including bird feeders, garbage, and deer corn. Residents are advised to take measures to deter bears by removing these easy access points for scavenging. In light of several encounters, including one with a tagged bear believed to have originated in North Carolina, the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office is collaborating with SCDNR for safe relocation of the bears. Residents are urged not to approach or provoke these animals, as encounters can lead to dangerous situations.

Interestingly, a recent report indicated a bear was spotted swimming near Harris Landing on Lake Greenwood, drawing attention from families and boaters in the area. This incident, along with the rising number of bear encounters, underscores the need for awareness and caution among local residents. SCDNR biologist Tammy Waldrop stated that while bears are typically not aggressive toward humans, they are motivated by food, necessitating a careful approach to shared spaces.

Recent preliminary data shows an increasing trend in black bear sightings in Greenwood County over the years. As the bear population grows, so does the likelihood of encounters between bears and humans. Residents are encouraged to secure their trash cans, remove bird feeders, and take preventative measures to minimize the chances of attracting bears to their properties.

The presence of black bears in residential areas poses important safety considerations for Greenwood County residents. Local authorities, in collaboration with the SCDNR, continue to monitor bear activity and provide assistance to ensure the safety of the community and avoid any potential conflicts with wildlife.

In summary, the rise in black bear sightings in Greenwood County calls for increased vigilance among residents. By understanding bear behavior and implementing proper safety measures, the community can work towards coexisting safely with these wild animals.