Posted October 12, 2017

The UCF Police Department has received a report of a bear sighting on campus near Knights Plaza.

Bears are typically quiet and shy, but they are wild animals. It is important to remain alert of your surroundings and to be aware of how to react should you see a bear. Never approach or surprise a bear, and do not feed or intentionally attract them.

If you encounter a bear at close range, remain standing upright, back up slowly and speak to the bear in a calm, assertive voice. Make your presence known, but do not make any sudden or abrupt movements. Back slowly into a safe, indoor place, and be sure the bear has an obvious escape route.

Do not turn your back, play dead, climb or run. Also avoid direct eye contact, which can be viewed as aggressive.

For more information, visit http://myfwc.com/conservation/you-conserve/assistnuisance-wildlife/

If you spot a bear, contact UCF Police at 911.