Radnor Black Bear That Prompted School Lockdowns Gets Twitter Account
The Radnor Black Bear’s Twitter selfie. Photo by Alan Vernon via Wikimedia Commons.
If you go out in the woods today…
— Radnor Black Bear (@RadnorBear) September 13, 2016
The black bear that prompted two schools in Radnor to go on lockdown yesterday morning is apparently making a bid for fame — and a safe return home.
The bear was spotted multiple times yesterday, according to Radnor police, first around 8:45 a.m. near the intersection of Haymarket Lane and Clyde Road. Sightings near Ithan Elementary School in Bryn Mawr and the Academy of Notre Dame in Villanova prompted both schools to enter lockdown mode yesterday.
Residents were also on alert, especially after the bear apparently charged a Radnor motorcycle officer at Ithan Elementary. Lt. Christopher Flanagan told the Inquirer he was walking near the woods when the bear sprang out from the bushes. He said he had to “dump” his bike before fleeing to the school on foot.
Pennsylvania’s black bear population is on the rise, and the Game Commission estimates that there are currently 20,000 black bears in the state.
In the midst of all the craziness, the Radnor Black Bear Twitter account appeared:
I still need to eat some more to reach my calorie target for today, so if you could leave your trash out, that'd be GREAT
— Radnor Black Bear (@RadnorBear) September 13, 2016
So what time's the family picnic at Ithan E ?
— Radnor Black Bear (@RadnorBear) September 14, 2016
Here, kitty, kitty
— Radnor Black Bear (@RadnorBear) September 14, 2016
You guys have some great trees https://t.co/kOYXSi3mrf
— Radnor Black Bear (@RadnorBear) September 14, 2016
Seriously, it could be worse, I could be wearing a clown suit. https://t.co/ytnpdbD68d
— Radnor Black Bear (@RadnorBear) September 13, 2016
Hey there are some great tips here on what to do if you see me:https://t.co/Kmf3Lbkkao
— Radnor Black Bear (@RadnorBear) September 13, 2016
Police said the bear was last seen around 2 p.m., running through backyards on Darby Paoli Road toward Saw Mill Road, heading into Skunk Hollow park. Flanagan told the Inquirer that the bear is probably the same one seen in Chester County last week, and that it’s just “taking a walk” through Radnor.
Game Commission officials attempted to locate and trap the bear yesterday without any luck. So the Radnor Black Bear is still at large. Here are some tips for how to live in peace with bears:
- Keep your dog on a leash if a bear is active in your area.
- Turn on outside lights and make noise when walking pets after dark.
- Keep your pet in the house after dark.
- Don’t leave small pets outside unless you are present.
- Feed your pets inside. If you must feed them outside, remove their dish and clean up afterwards. Store food and other attractants in animal-proof containers with locking lids.
- If a bear attacks your pet, do not rush the bear and attempt to separate the animals. Make loud noises by shouting and clapping and, if available, spray the bear with a hose or throw objects at it while maintaining a safe distance. Once the bear leaves the area, retrieve your pet and leave the area. If your pet is injured, call your veterinarian for advice on effective treatment. Also, contact your state wildlife agency immediately.
Follow @ClaireSasko on Twitter.
