ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A black bear was recently spotted in Albuquerque’s Tanoan neighborhood, adding to a series of bear sightings reported around the metro area this summer.
The bear was seen in the northeast Albuquerque neighborhood near the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, where wildlife officials say bears occasionally wander into developed areas while searching for food and water.
The latest sighting comes just weeks after wildlife officers responded to another bear incident in northwest Albuquerque. In late July, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish officers captured a mother bear that had been spotted repeatedly in residential neighborhoods. Officials also worked to locate and safely remove the bear’s cub.
Wildlife experts say bear activity in Albuquerque typically increases during the warmer months as animals move between mountain habitats and lower elevations. Areas near the Sandia foothills are especially prone to occasional bear sightings.
Officials encourage residents to secure trash containers, bring pet food indoors, and remove other attractants that may draw wildlife into neighborhoods.
Anyone who encounters a bear is advised to keep their distance and avoid approaching the animal. Sightings can be reported to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish or local authorities.
At this time, no injuries or property damage have been reported in connection with the Tanoan sighting.
