Monument, Colo. – Residents and staff at the Lewis‑Palmer School District 38 administration building, affectionately known as “Big Red,” were treated to an unexpected visitor on Thursday afternoon: a bear perched in one of the trees directly outside the facility.

The district confirmed the sighting and posted photos on its social media channels, noting that the bear appeared calm and did not approach the building. In addition to the bear, a family of mule deer was observed lounging in the grass nearby, adding to the wildlife spectacle.

Seasonal Context

The encounter comes at a time when Colorado Parks and Wildlife reports a surge in bear‑human interactions. According to the agency’s September data, incidents involving bears were up 135 % compared to the same period in the previous year, as bears intensify their foraging efforts before entering hibernation.

Officials remind the public that bears are naturally drawn to areas where food sources are abundant, and the transition into winter drives them to seek out higher‑calorie options. While the presence of a bear in an urban setting can be alarming, experts stress that bears generally avoid direct contact with people when given space.

Safety Recommendations

Colorado Parks and Wildlife urges residents to take precautionary steps to reduce attractants:

• Secure garbage cans with tight‑fitting lids.
• Remove bird feeders and pet food from outdoor areas.
• Keep compost piles covered.
• Avoid leaving fruit or other edible waste in yards.

If a bear is sighted, the agency advises people to stay indoors, keep pets inside, and contact local law enforcement or wildlife officials for guidance. In most cases, bears will move on once they realize humans are present.

District Response

District 38 spokesperson Jamie Reynolds said the administration building’s staff are monitoring the situation and have coordinated with local authorities to ensure safety. “We are grateful that the bear has not approached the building or caused any disruption,” Reynolds said. “Our priority is the safety of our students, staff, and community members, and we are following the recommended protocols.”

The district also used the opportunity to educate the community about coexisting with wildlife, emphasizing the importance of respecting animals’ natural behaviors while protecting public safety.

Looking Ahead

As the bear season progresses, officials expect more sightings across the Front Range. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the district’s communication channels and the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website, which provides up‑to‑date alerts and safety tips.

For those interested in learning more about local wildlife and how to coexist safely, the district plans to host a virtual town hall later this month featuring wildlife experts and park officials.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.