QUICK SUMMARY
A black bear killed a goat in Townsend, Massachusetts, and attempted to access a chicken coop on Thursday morning. Local police and environmental officials responded but did not locate the bear, which has prompted reminders for residents about bear safety. Massachusetts has an estimated bear population of over 4,500, and residents are encouraged to secure food sources to deter bears.
A black bear targeted a goat and a chicken coop in Townsend, Massachusetts, on Thursday morning, prompting police and environmental responses. Around 8:06 a.m., a resident reported the bear, which had killed one goat and was attempting to attack others. Although local police and Massachusetts Environmental Police searched for the bear, it eluded capture. Townsend Fire Chief Gary Shepard managed to take a photo of the bear, which was shared on Facebook to notify residents. The bear population in Massachusetts is estimated at over 4,500 and is expanding eastward. Authorities emphasized the importance of securing food sources, stating that if a bear finds food, it will likely return. Residents are advised to pick fruit daily and remove bird feeders during winter months when bears are typically denning. Such precautions are essential to ensure community safety and reduce bear encounters.