CASTILE – That fall chill and early flurries are signs that winter is well on its way, and the bears are well aware.
These lucky images were captured by Angela Frink and have been making the rounds on Facebook since Sunday evening.
“lucky to be in the right place at the right time to capture him as he strolled across the road,” posted Frink with the stunning photographs.
Several other fortunate hikers have posted about other sightings and shared rumors that a mother and cub are roaming within the park.
Still, others commented that they have spent decades in and around the park and never seen one of these elusive gentle giants.
“same here, i’m 51, lived here all my life and have never seen a bear or rattle snake, so if you see them your pretty lucky,” posted Sheila Purdy.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) New York’s black bear population is currently estimated at a minimum of 6,000 to 8,000 bears in areas open to hunting. Of those, roughly only 10 to 15 percent live in central and western New York.
Hunting is not allowed in Letchworth State Park.
The DEC says that the number one cause for negative encounters with bears are easily accessible birdfeeders and garbage. Though bears are naturally shy and tend to keep away from people, it is best to keep any garbage, food and cooking odors under control, and feeding bears is never a good idea.
(Photo/Angela Frink via Facebook)