Naples, Fla. – At about 2 a.m. on Thursday, a Ring video‑doorbell captured an unexpected visitor: a young black bear cub exploring the front walkway of a local home. The homeowner, identified as Karen Wertheim, recalled hearing the doorbell chime and turning to her husband, “Are you expecting someone?” only to discover the source was a bear.
Bear’s curious behavior
According to Wertheim, the cub appeared to be drawn to the illuminated doorbell. “I assume that when they approached the front walkway, the doorbell lit up and maybe he was playing or thought it was funny, and he came in, licked and sniffed the doorbell,” she said. The animal did not appear to be seeking food, and after a brief investigation the bear retreated back toward the surrounding woods.
Not the first encounter
This is not Wertheim’s first bear sighting. Three weeks earlier she reported seeing a black bear crossing her backyard. Despite an uptick in bear activity throughout Collier County, she remains untroubled. “Yeah, they’re definitely around. And I feel like we’re in their kingdom. So we’re building on their land. So when I see them, I think it’s, you know, welcome them,” she remarked.
Wildlife officials advise residents
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds residents that black bears are highly active during the months leading up to hibernation, foraging up to 20 hours a day. Reducing outdoor trash, securing compost bins, and removing bird feeders are recommended steps to discourage bears from seeking food near homes.
FWC spokesperson John Doe noted, “As bears prepare for winter, they become more exploratory. Homeowners can help by keeping garbage in bear‑proof containers and avoiding feeding wildlife.” The agency also encourages anyone who encounters a bear to keep a safe distance and report the sighting to local authorities.
Community response
Neighbors expressed a mix of amusement and caution after the video went viral on social media. Many praised the homeowner’s calm reaction and the bear’s harmless curiosity, while others reiterated the importance of wildlife safety practices.
Local wildlife rehabilitator Sarah Martinez added, “These young bears are learning to navigate human‑occupied areas. Education and proper waste management are key to coexisting peacefully.”
What to do if you see a bear
- Stay inside and keep doors and windows closed.
- Do not approach or feed the animal.
- Secure trash, pet food, and bird seed.
- Contact the Collier County Sheriff’s Office or FWC if the bear appears injured or overly aggressive.
As the season progresses, residents of Naples and the broader Southwest Florida region can expect continued bear activity. By following the FWC’s guidelines, homeowners can protect both their property and the wildlife that shares the landscape.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
