Bear sighting on UCF campus

Bear spotted on campus, near Academic Village

ORLANDO, Fla. – Sightings of a bear on UCF campus, as well as near Academic Village, were reported Tuesday to the UCF Police Department.

It's important to remain alert and aware of your surroundings and how to react should you see a bear.

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If you encounter a bear at close range, remain standing upright, back up slowly and speak to the bear in a calm, assertive voice. You want to make your presence known without making any sudden or abrupt movements.

Back slowly into a safe, indoor place, and be sure the bear has an obvious escape route.

You never want to turn your back, play dead, climb or run. Bears are typically quiet and shy, but are wild animals. Avoid eye contact, it can be viewed as aggressive.

Never approach or surprise a bear, and do not feed or intentionally attract them.

Should you spot a bear, contact UCF Police at 407-823-5555.