MASS. - A warning from MassWildlife as black bears become more active this time of year. 

MassWildlife says the bear population is growing in Central Massachusetts and causing issues in areas like Holden and Paxton.  Residents are being encouraged to take down their bird feeders and protect their chicken coops. 

"Everyone who has backyard chickens or bees to use electric fencing. As bears are visiting backyards to take advantage of bird feeders they are realizing chicken coops are an easy meal. The only way to protect the chickens and bears is electric fencing,” Dave Wattles, a MassWildlife black bear and furbearer biologist, said. “We have a complete guide on our website and all the materials are available at any farm supply store and they're safe to use around kids and pets." 

MassWildlife says if you come across a bear, give it space. Talk calmly to the animal and slowly back away.  The bears typically do not become aggressive towards pets unless they are provoked.