DONA ANA COUNTY, N.M. (KFOX14/CBS4) — A black bear has been spotted roaming through Doña Ana in recent days, an unusual sight in the Chihuahuan Desert that has left some residents concerned as the animal moves through pecan fields and backyards.
According to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, a conservation officer first responded Thursday afternoon after receiving a report that a bear had gotten into a dumpster near the Evergreen retirement community.
At approximately 8:30 p.m., officials received another report of the bear in the area. New Mexico State Police responded and established a perimeter around a nearby orchard where the animal was believed to have entered while a Department conservation officer traveled to the scene.
The officer searched the orchard until about 11:30 p.m. but was unable to locate the bear.
Officials said the bear’s current whereabouts remain unknown, but they believe it is still somewhere in the Doña Ana area.
Wildlife officials say the bear was likely searching for food and water after an unusually dry spring and summer reduced natural food sources in its normal habitat, prompting it to venture into more populated areas.
Residents have captured photos and surveillance video of the bear, including an image showing it standing in pecan trees and video of it walking through a yard. One resident said the sighting was unexpected for the area: “You would see a fox crossing the street right out of there. Or a squirrel, but not a bear.”
Black bear spotted in Doña Ana, New Mexico (credit: viewer)
Another resident said, “I’ve never seen a bear in this area before.”
The San Andres Mountains are about 40 miles away, but seeing a black bear this far into the Mesilla Valley is still unusual.
Hunters said the bear may have wandered into the area looking for food or water as hot, dry conditions continue across southern New Mexico. One hunter said, “Oh, I don’t think it’s that common to have a bear this low, but I think the weather is bringing them down.”
Because the bear has not yet been captured, some residents said they are still afraid. “Oh yeah, of course, I’m afraid, you know, because I live around here,” one woman said.
A hunter said the bear may not pose a threat if people keep their distance. “I don’t think it’s a danger unless, you know, you get too close to it or you’re agitated,” he said. He added, “I think the problem is they’re hungry and they’re just trying to survive, so I don’t think they’re really a threat to humans at this point.”
Emily Schmalz reports on Black bear roams Doña Ana, spotted in pecan trees and near Evergreen retirement community (Credit: KFOX14)
The U.S. Department of Agriculture advises that if you encounter a bear, do not run, stay calm and slowly back away.
Officials share Bear Aware tips
The Department of Game and Fish is reminding residents living in bear country to take precautions to avoid attracting bears to their property.
Officials recommend:
- Store garbage in sturdy, closed containers inside a secure garage and avoid placing trash outside the night before pickup.
- Feed pets indoors and keep pet food securely stored.
- Bring hummingbird feeders inside at night and limit bird seed to daytime use.
- Pick ripe fruit promptly and remove fallen fruit from the ground.
- Keep woodpiles and compost piles away from homes.
- Clean barbecue grills after every use and store them in a secure location.
- Protect livestock, beehives and chicken pens with fencing, including electric fencing where appropriate.
Residents are also advised never to feed or approach bears, as doing so encourages them to associate people with food and increases the risk of dangerous encounters.
What to do if you encounter a bear
If you come across a bear, officials recommend:
- Stay calm and do not run.
- Stand upright and slowly wave your arms.
- Slowly back away while keeping an eye on the bear.
- Be aware of nearby cubs and never get between a mother bear and her young.
- If a bear attacks, fight back aggressively.
The Department also encourages residents to notify neighbors of bear activity and secure any potential food sources that could attract wildlife.
Officials have not reported any injuries or property damage beyond the bear accessing the dumpster, and the search for the animal has concluded for now unless additional sightings are reported.
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