Bear Spotted in Edgefield, South Carolina
Maybe he was just looking for a way to cool down or something to eat. But a bear was spotted in Edgefield, South Carolina recently. A resident in Edgefield spotted the bear in her backyard and actually captured some photos. According to the comments, this is near Sweetwater Road and Rainsford Road.
The photos were shared in a group on Facebook, and others commented about other bear sightings. Someone commented saying she was on the way to the lake and thought she saw a small cub that had been hit by a car. And someone else said he’s captured a few glimpses on this trail camera.
According to some of the comments, it hasn’t been uncommon this time of year to have bear sightings in the Edgefield area.
What Should You Do If You See A Bear?
The best thing to do is to keep your distance. According to the National Park Service, bears tend to avoid humans if they hear them coming. You want to pay attention when you’re in an area where bears may be present.
The National Park Service also offers tips to follow if you do have a bear encounter:
- Identify yourself. But remain calm. Stay still, stand your ground. They also say to slowly wave your arms to help the bear realize you’re a human and not prey. The bear may come closer or stand on their hind legs. They are trying to get a better look or smell. Just because they are standing doesn’t mean they are threatening– they are just curious.
- Pick up small children. Don’t make loud noises or scream. The bear may mistake that for the sound of prey. Slowly wave your arms and don’t run or make sudden movements.
- Travel in groups. The more the merrier… and louder. Groups make more noise and are smellier– so the bear is more likely to hear and smell from a further distance and avoid you.
- Be cautious around a female with her cubs. You never want to put yourself between a mother and her cubs. She will more than likely see you as a threat to her cubs, making an attack more likely.
While bear attacks aren’t extremely common, and spotting them around this area isn’t either, your chances are low. But it’s always a good idea to be prepared and know what to do… just in case!
