FLAT ROCK, Mich. – A Downriver community is urging residents to be careful after a black bear was reportedly spotted on a surveillance camera.
According to authorities, the video was captured near Woodruff Road between I-75 and Olmstead Road. It shows the bear moving through a yard before continuing north.
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Police did not say when this occurred.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has been notified and is monitoring the situation.
Residents are urged to secure garbage cans and keep pets inside or under close supervision. Anyone who spots the bear is asked to stay indoors and contact the DNR at 800-292-7800.
About black bears in Michigan
The black bear is the only bear species found in Michigan. They are solitary animals mostly found in the Upper Peninsula and are generally not aggressive, tending to leave an area when food is not available.
The DNR says the best action when encountering a black bear is to slowly walk backward while speaking to it in a stern voice.
The DNR suggests people be SMART when encountering bears.
S -- Stand your ground. Do not run or play dead.
M -- Make loud noises and back away slowly.
A -- Always provide a clear, unobstructed escape route for the bear.
R -- Rarely do bears attack. If they do, fight back.
T -- Treat bears with respect and observe them from a distance.