Residents of Clear Pond, a neighborhood in Horry County, are reporting an increase in black bear sightings over the past few weeks. The sightings have become so frequent that some residents claim they’ve seen bears almost every night. The bears, varying in size, have been spotted in different areas of the community, often after dark.

Neighborhood Encounters with Bears

One resident, Siming Guo, shared that the bears typically appear around 11 p.m., a time when people are still active in the area. The neighborhood has seen more than one bear, with some residents even giving them names. Brittney Gallaher, another Clear Pond resident, affectionately referred to one of the bears as “Ted.” She mentioned that “Ted” has been raiding trash cans and even ate a pumpkin from her porch. Despite the occasional nuisance, many in the neighborhood have become fond of the bear, acknowledging its cuteness.

Safety and Community Precautions

To address the issue, a recent letter was sent out to Clear Pond residents, warning them of the increased bear activity. In response, residents have begun taking measures to reduce the attraction of the bears to the area, such as storing trash inside garages until pickup day. Guo noted that this approach has helped reduce the frequency of bear visits.

However, the presence of the bears has also raised concerns about safety, especially with children and pets in the area. Residents are mindful of potential risks but are also concerned about the welfare of the bears. “We don’t want anything to happen to the bears, like being put down,” Guo explained. “We understand this was originally their land.”

Advice from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) has been involved in educating the public on how to coexist with the bears safely. They recommend that residents secure bird feeders, trash, and any other food resources that might attract the animals. These steps are vital in encouraging the bears to move out of the area without harming them.

For more tips on how to safely coexist with wildlife, residents are encouraged to visit the SCDNR’s website for additional guidance.

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