Bears on the Move: New Hanover Township Residents Report Multiple Sightings, Mixed Reactions

by Lesley Misko

It was only a matter of time before the bears around Boyertown got tired of posing for pictures with tourists and set out for greener pastures. A flurry of bear sightings in New Hanover Township over the weekend captured the community’s attention, triggered a police advisory, and sparked a range of reactions from concern to comedy.

On June 7, the New Hanover Township Police Department (NHTPD) reported multiple calls beginning early this week about black bears seen roaming in areas around Swamp Creek Park, Sterling Drive, Martin Drive, Hill Road, and Schultz Road. In a Facebook post that quickly generated more than 60 comments, police elaborated: “The bear seems to be just out for a stroll,” while also acknowledging it’s unclear if the township is playing host to one particularly curious bear or several.

Resident Bob Kushnerick added more detail to the bear’s apparent route in a post on the Nextdoor app: “Saw a bear this morning in my backyard,” he wrote, cautioning others near Martin Lane and Heather Lane, not far from the New Hanover firehouse on Swamp Pike.

Police reminded residents to call either the department’s non-emergency line or 911 in case of a sighting, especially if there is a safety concern. The Pennsylvania Game Commission also is aware of the situation and on standby to assist if needed.

Safety First or Bear-y Funny?

Community reactions have been as diverse as the landscape.

Some residents expressed appreciation for the alert. “Thank you for providing BOTH phone numbers in case of a sighting,” wrote Eileen Murray, adding, “I, for one, appreciate being informed.”

Others questioned whether seeing a bear warrants a 911 call at all. “Why does spotting a bear warrant a 911 call if he's just wandering around?” asked Sarah Toback. Steve Kozak echoed the sentiment: “911 is for emergencies… seeing an animal native to the state is not an emergency.”

But several residents, like Suzie Witcoski Drake, lauded the police for informing the community. “It’s nice they share this information so parents can share with kids that may be outside playing… maybe be more vigilant.”

Despite the underlying safety concerns, many residents took to social media with a healthy dose of humor. “Maybe it’s just looking for bear necessities,” joked John Cammarata. “Oh just bear with the situation, people…” added David Petrowski.

Others riffed on Boyertown’s reputation for bear-themed art and school mascots. “Should fit right in,” wrote Crystal Hober. “

Randy Schutt chimed in with a touch of nostalgia: “Came up today on my memories that a bear was spotted in Gilbertsville 14 years ago.”

And in perhaps the most local twist of all, Anita Ricci quipped, “He just wanted to hang out for the graduation.”

Still, as some commenters reminded the community, it's important not to let the jokes overshadow the risks. “You would be the first ones crying if your pet gets mauled to death,” warned Angwelod Boanerges. “This is just a friendly PSA.”

What To Do If You Spot a Bear

The New Hanover Police noted that “[w]hile it’s exciting to spot wildlife, please use extra caution.”

Resident Danielle Barnes, echoed this sentiment and advised: “They really aren't aggressive, unless you mess with them and their babies… The important thing is to secure your trash cans and lock your doors.”

NHTPD reminds residents: Do not approach the bear, do not feed it, and promptly report sightings. They can be reached 24/7 at 610-327-1150 or via 911 in an emergency.

Whether a single visitor or a small parade, the bears have certainly made their presence — and their paw prints — known in New Hanover Township. It remains to be seen if they will make time to visit Studio B’s “Three Bears” exhibit or simply head to Jane Stahl’s backyard for a picnic.  We hear she has been baking large amounts of banana cake in anticipation of them dropping by! 

Have photos or videos of the bear? E-mail them to us at expressioneditor1@gmail.com — but keep a safe distance and bear in mind: safety first.

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