Black bear spotted in Northampton Township, Bucks County

NORTHAMPTON TOWNSHIP, Pa. (WPVI) -- A black bear captured on home surveillance video in Bucks County is prompting concern among residents, as wildlife officials monitor the situation.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission said it is aware of the sighting and that wardens are tracking reports while assessing whether the animal can be captured and relocated. Officials also believe the same bear may have been spotted in nearby Newtown a day earlier.

The encounter was caught in a brief clip recorded outside Jen Dougherty's home on Doris Avenue in the Holland section of Northampton Township around 1:30 a.m. Wednesday. The video shows a black bear walking through her driveway.

"I still think it's so crazy," Dougherty said. "I checked 50 times, I'm, like, 'Am I being pranked?'"

Police said there may have been another sighting just a few blocks away near St. Leonards and Middle Holland Roads. The reported activity prompted precautionary measures at a nearby elementary school, where parents said they were notified by the school principal that students would remain indoors for recess.

"It said we're having indoor recess for the rest of the day because there's been a bear spotted at the corner of Middle Holland Road and St. Leonards Road, and I read that, and I'm like, 'That's my front yard,'" said parent Jaime Hutchinson.

Neighbors who spoke with Action News were mostly just in shock, but there was also concern.

"I just went out and closed my doggy door, making sure my dog was safe. That type of stuff doesn't usually happen here, so just making sure I take the proper precautions," said Ed Klos.

"It makes me nervous for the people and the kids, but a lot more for the young pets that are out here, the little dogs and the cats. I did try to notify everybody because I'm thinking the bus is coming to pick kids up," Dougherty said.

While Bucks County is not considered a core habitat for black bears, sporadic sightings can occur at this time of year. There were recent sightings in late May in Solebury and Plumstead Townships, though residents in this part of the county thought this might be a first.

"We get deer, no bears," Hutchinson said.

"I've lived here for 10 years. I've never heard of a black bear here," said Dawn Palilonis.

Northampton Township police are urging residents not to approach the animal if seen and to report any sightings immediately.

"I'm just hoping everybody stays safe, including the bear," Dougherty said.