Bear

Bears in Hudson

Bears are sighted every year in Hudson, Ohio. This photo shows a bear that wandered through Hudson backyards in 2012. The Ohio Division of Wildlife does not relocate bears. Bears live in Ohio year-round, and will continue to return to areas where a food source is available. During times that bears are migrating through Hudson, follow the tips below to discourage bears from your property.

For more information, read the Ohio Department Natural Resources Division of Wildlife brochure:

A black bear.

Bear-Proofing Your Backyard

The Ohio Department of Wildlife warns that black bears are large animals and can cause significant damage while in search of an easy meal. If your yard is being visited by a black bear there are several things that must be done to ensure that the animal doesn’t become a “problem bear”. A “problem bear” can be defined as an animal that has lost its natural fear of humans and habitually causes property damage while in search of food. In this instance all potential food attractants must be removed from the area. This includes:

  • Bird feeders and other wildlife feed: Remove feeders, including hummingbird and suet feeders.
  • Trash receptacles: Store your garbage either in a garage or a secure container.
  • Pet food: Keep pet food inside, especially at night.
  • Grease from grills: Clean out grease traps after each use; store grill in garage or shed.
  • Secure beehives: Place electric fencing around beehives.
  • Crops: Pick fruit from berry bushes as soon as possible; scare bears out of agriculture fields as soon as damage occurs; contact your Summit County Wildlife Officer.

What To Do If You Encounter a Bear


The Ohio Department of Wildlife offers tips on what to do if you encounter a bear. Black bears are usually fearful of people, therefore bear attacks are a rare occurrence. Bears do not attack or kill children or pets as long as the bear is given its space and not cornered. The first thing to do when you see a bear is REMAIN CALM. Generally, black bears are non-aggressive and prefer to flee from the area as soon as they are aware of your presence.

If you encounter a bear, and it is not aware of your presence, simply back away from the area slowly. If the bear is aware of your presence and it does not leave the area, avoid direct eye contact with the animal, give the bear an easy escape route and again, simply back slowly away from the area. Always avoid running or climbing trees, which may provoke a chase. An easy way to remember this is to be AWARE:

  • Act calm and do not run.
  • Warn the bear that you are near; talk in a firm, calm voice.
  • Allow space between you and the bear. Step aside and back slowly away. Do not make the bear feel trapped or threatened.
  • Raise your hands above your head to appear larger if the bear approaches. Clap your hands or shout to scare the bear away.
  • Exit the area.
For more information visit the Ohio Department of Wildlife's Black Bears in Ohio Webpage.
To report a bear sighting, call Hudson police at 330-342-1800 and/or contact the Ohio Department of Wildlife.