It’s late spring in Eastern Ohio, and the region’s non-human residents seem to be thriving. It seems that everywhere you look, you can see examples of the wildlife that help make this region a beautiful place to live.

Over the past week or so, people living in and visiting St. Clairsville have reported seeing a black bear passing through the area. Such sightings are relatively rare, but they do occur in Belmont County nearly every year. In fact, Belmont County Sheriff’s Office Dangerous Wild Animal Response Team Commander Sgt. Thomas DeVaul said several bears inhabit the southern portion of the county.

“Black bears, I describe as very large overgrown raccoons. They are herbivores and they are scavengers, so they’re not any threat to people or pets or livestock in general,” he told our reporter. “But just like any animal, if it gets cornered, trapped, or put in extreme fear, you don’t know what it’s going to do. If you see one, keep your distance.”

That’s good advice when it comes to any type of wildlife.

At this time of year, area residents frequently spot newborn deer that appear helpless and abandoned. That is almost never the case. Rather, the mother often leaves her baby behind while searching for food, as her own scent can attract predators. She will be back to care for her little one, and people who find it should leave it alone.

Of course, if you find yourself in a true emergency situation where people are in danger, you should immediately call 911. And if you encounter a scenario where you are confident that an animal needs human intervention, you can contact DeVaul, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources or a local wildlife rescue organization.

In general, though, wild animals do not need our help. Do not feed them, and do not remove them from their location. Instead, just relish the opportunity to observe them in their natural environment and appreciate all the beauty of nature.