How Should One Respond to Seeing a Bear?

Unsure how to react to seeing a bear?

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife has a "Living With Black Bears in Massachusetts" guide on its website.

"A bear's first response to something unusual is to flee," the guide states.

"If a bear is feeding in an area where it doesn't belong, such as your yard, on a porch or in a Dumpster, run out at it, yell and make lots of noise. The bear will usually leave -- accompanied by its young.

"However, bears that have been habituated to human presence may ignore minor harassment. Removal of food sources and other attractants is key to deterring or avoiding bear problems."