Bear Sighted in Shoreline

There have been reports of bear sightings in Shoreline.  Early this morning a jogger reported seeing a bear behind Kellogg/Shorecrest headed into the Hamlin Park woods. Yesterday afternoon it was reportedly seen near Parkwood in the Twin Ponds area. As reported on the news, this type of bear is not a threat to people unless cornered. Students at Kellogg and Shorecrest have been advised to stay away from the bear if sighted. They should not corner or threaten it. Call 911 to report a bear sighting.

When asked if the bear were a threat, or could be a danger to little children, a Fish and Wildlife Agent didn’t think much of the question.  He is reported as saying, “Do you know how many little children have been eaten by a black bear?  Zero.  You have more chance of being run over by a KIRO news truck than of being hurt by this bear.”

A two year old black bear now nicknamed “Urban Phantom,” he was first spotted in Magnolia and is little by little heading east while eluding attempts to capture and help him out of the city.  He seems to be headed toward the unpopulated spots to the north and east of the Seattle Metro area, and finally hopefully back to the Cascades, “where bears belong.”

The City of Shoreline has posted some useful information about how to live with urban wildlife on its Web site which is at http://www.shorelinewa.gov/

Here is what The Department of Fish and Wildlife advises you to do if you see a bear:

Remain calm. If you can, move away quietly when it’s not looking.   As you retreat, watch its behavior for cues on what to do next.

If it comes toward you, stand up, wave your hands above your head and talk in a low voice. (Don’t use the word “bear” because it might associate the word with food … people feeding bears often say “here bear.”) (and don’t feed it.)

Don’t throw anything and avoid direct eye contact.

If you cannot move away safely or if the bear continues toward you, clap your hands, stomp your feet and yell. If in a group, stand shoulder-to-shoulder and raise and wave your arms.  If it persists, use pepper spray if you have it.

Don’t run unless safety is near and you are certain you can reach it.  Climbing a tree generally is not recommended.