UNDERHILL, Vt. (WCAX) – Officials in the town of Underhill are warning residents after they say a local resident was repeatedly charged by a bear.
Underhill Animal Control Officer Jennifer Silpe-Katz says the bear tried to attack a man while he was in his yard. She says he was able to defend himself from multiple charges by using a stick and shouting as he retreated into his home. Even then, she says the bear continued to try and attack the house and get inside.
Officials say there have been more than a dozen bear sightings in the last 24 hours, and that while aggressive behavior is highly unusual, they are urging residents and pet owners to use caution. “Time to pull your bird feeders in, time to make sure your compost is covered. They’re not tame. They might look cute but it’s scary, especially if they’re hungry and behaving aggressively. People need to be aware of that because it could end badly,” Silpe-Katz said.
State game wardens have been called in and are attempting to capture the bear.