Bear sightings on the increase in SC

Bears are out, one more sign that drought is starting to take hold in the Lowcountry.

Two black bears have been spotted recently crossing roads in Berkeley County, among more than 10 sightings so far this year in Berkeley and Charleston counties. Another was spotted in Holly Hill just over the Orangeburg County line.

The sightings are among a rash in both South and North Carolina that is being blamed on dry conditions.

That's not all. Wildlife biologists say residents might see more snakes, raccoons and other animals because of the drought, especially after brief rains.

Read more in tomorrow's editions of The Post and Courier.

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South Carolina

Coast: 225.

Mountains: 900.

North Carolina

Coast: 7,000.

Mountains: 4,000.

Georgia

Coast (including Middle Georgia): 800.

Mountains: 1,200.

Source: S.C. Department of Natural Resources.

Clean grills. Remember: Anything that attracts dogs, cats, or raccoons will also attract bears.

Store indoors or protect with an electric fence:

Source: 'Homeowners Guide to Living with Bear,' S.C. Department of Natural Resources.

For more information go to www.dnr.sc.gov, click on 'wildlife' then 'bear.'