Residents of Townsend were startled after a security camera captured a massive bear walking upright in a backyard while foraging for food.

The Townsend Police Department issued a warning to those in northern Middlesex County following the unusual sighting.

“We want to alert residents in the Mason/Greenville Rd area about a large (approx. 400 lb) black bear that has recently been spotted multiple times in the neighborhood,” police posted. “The most recent sighting was yesterday (Sunday) around 5:30 PM while people were outside grilling.”

Authorities advised residents to take precautions over the coming week. Recommendations include removing bird feeders, securing trash bins, and ensuring all doors, including garage doors, are closed.

Massachusetts is home to an estimated 4,500 black bears. Experts note these animals often ignore natural foods like acorns and nuts, opting instead for easier meals from trash, bird feeders, or backyard chicken coops.

“Environmental Police advise that if the bear can’t find food for a week, it should move on to another area,” Townsend Police added. “Let’s work together to help encourage the bear to move along to a safer place!”

For bird enthusiasts, officials suggest replacing feeders with water features or planting native shrubs and trees to attract birds naturally. Those keeping chickens, bees, or livestock are encouraged to use electric fencing.

Wildlife officials caution anyone who encounters a bear to give it space, back away slowly, and never approach or run, especially if cubs are present. Black bears are commonly found in Worcester County, northern Middlesex County, and areas west to the Berkshires, though some can be seen along Route 495 and other parts of eastern Massachusetts.