Flagler County, FL - Over the weekend, a Florida Black Bear was spotted at the Flagler County Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
Usually, Florida Black Bears roam in forested areas, such as sand-pine and oak scrub, by themselves. They only tend to be together during mating season.
“Flagler County is growing but it is still a rural county,” says Administrator, Craig Coffey. “It’s a reminder that there is a variety of wildlife in our area, bears included.”
Flagler County residents are asked to clean their grills regularly, pick ripe fruits and vegetables from their gardens and lock up their garbage. Bears have a strong sense of smell, eyesight and hearing, so it is important to keep things out of their sight and smell.
In response to the sighting, Joe Mayer, the Flagler County Human Resources Director, told employees of the Government Services Complex to be wary of their surroundings, especially in the parking lot and between buildings.
“If you come in early, leave late, walk on your break or lunch, be advised that bears have been seen in the area surrounding the EOC,” says Mayer. “Please govern yourselves accordingly.”
For more information on bears, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's YouTube video "Living with Florida Black Bears."
(Bear photo courtesy of the Flagler County Emergency Operations Center)
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