outdoors-hiking and camping
Are there bears in southeastern Massachusetts?Black bears in MassachusettsThough Massachusetts is the third most densely-populated state in the country, black bears have been increasing in numbers and distribution since the 1970s. The statewide population of bears is estimated to be over 4,500 animals and is growing and expanding eastward.
Protecting Hunters from Risk: Some Common Sense Guidelines
If you are approached by an aggressive bear avoid direct eye contact, speak in a soft, calm voice and slowly back away from the bear. These actions often will help appease the bear. The bear may slap the ground, huff, blow, and chomp its teeth or make a bluff charge to let you know it feels threatened and wants space. Do not run or turn your back to the bear. Bears can out-run, out-swim and out-climb you.
The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife is updating its list of endangered, threatened and special concern species. The list changes based on knowledge of the status of birds, bees and plants, and the state’s understanding of habitat requirements. The list influences development and land acquisition efforts, since species are afforded legal protections and conservation groups are often guided by habitat protection efforts.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced Friday that six southeastern communities in Massachusetts are now at a “high risk” from the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus.
Unlike most invasive species, coyotes are native to North America, with a natural habitat that extends from Alaska to Central America over terrain ranging from mountains to plains to — these days — cities (in one notable case, a coyote even staked out a Chicago .Restaurant.
Ticks are tiny bugs most likely found in shady, damp, brushy, wooded, or grassy areas (especially in tall grass), including your own backyard.
Bears are naturally afraid of humans, but as the lines between bears and humans become less defined, bears become more audacious in our presence. This is especially true in areas where they’re accustomed to seeing us, like hiking trails. Aside from always packing your bear spray, there are a few other precautions you can take while hiking
