By Brian Hoop
Local Portland media reported six black bear sightings within eight days in late May 2023 in Northwest Portland’s Forest Park, according to Ben Cate, a district wildlife biologist for the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife’s North Willamette Watershed District.
Sighting locations included Northwest 53rd Drive, along the area of Upper Saltzman and Fire Lane 5, along the Leif Erickson Trail, and off the BPA road near Skyline Boulevard.
Such behavior is not uncommon at that time of year between when they wake up from hibernation and when natural fruiting foods are ripe later in the summer
according to Cate. Human food waste in garbage cans
is an attractive target.
While the bear has not been sighted since May, Oregon Fish & Wildlife advises:
• Secure food in bear-proof containers
• Hike in groups, make noise
• Keep dogs on leash
• Carry bear spray or air horn
If you encounter a bear – stay calm, back away while facing it. Give it a way to escape.
• Don’t run
• Avoid eye contact
• Appear large – raise arms, hold small children, don’t bend over
• Make noise – shout, yell, whistle, clap