On Friday, November 6, a black bear made an unexpected appearance high in a tree along a rural road near Plattsburgh, New York. Crystal Gugliotta, a local resident, and her husband were driving when they noticed the animal and stopped to get a better look. “I couldn’t believe how high he was and how those thin branches were holding him up,” Gugliotta said, describing the bear’s precarious perch.

Bear’s climbing skill on full display

The video shared by Gugliotta shows the bear carefully balancing on a slender branch, demonstrating the species’ renowned climbing ability. While bears are generally adept climbers, this particular sighting highlighted just how high a black bear can ascend, even on seemingly fragile limbs.

Experts note that bears often climb to escape danger, reach food, or gain a better view of their surroundings. In this case, the animal appeared to be simply surveying the area, perhaps looking for a safe route or a potential food source.

Safety reminder for locals and visitors

Authorities continue to advise residents and visitors to keep a safe distance from wildlife and to avoid approaching or feeding bears. If you encounter a bear, it is best to remain calm, make yourself appear larger, and slowly back away. Driving motorists should also stay alert, especially in areas where bears are known to travel.

Gugliotta’s video serves as a reminder that bears are comfortable in their natural habitat, but they can also pose a risk if humans get too close. While the bear in Plattsburgh was safely perched, a separate incident in South Florida showed a black bear crossing a busy highway, underscoring the importance of staying vigilant wherever bears are present.

What to do if you see a bear

• Do not approach the animal.
• Keep pets leashed and under control.
• Give the bear plenty of space to move away.
• Report sightings to local wildlife officials, especially if the bear appears injured or unusually bold.

For those camping or hiking in the Plattsburgh area, consider avoiding tall trees that could serve as climbing platforms for bears, at least until the animal has moved on.

Overall, the sighting showcases the remarkable agility of black bears and reinforces the need for respectful coexistence between humans and wildlife in upstate New York.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.