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Bear seen on video ringing doorbell at New Hampshire home

The article from WMUR, a New Hampshire-based news outlet, titled "Bear rings doorbell at New Hampton home," published on October 31, 2024, details a unique and somewhat humorous wildlife encounter in New Hampton, New Hampshire. This incident, captured on a home security camera, showcases a black bear interacting with a homeowner's doorbell, an unusual behavior that highlights the increasing overlap between human habitats and wildlife in the region. The event not only provides a lighthearted story but also serves as a reminder of the importance of coexistence with local wildlife, particularly during the fall season when bears are actively preparing for hibernation. Below is an extensive summary of the content, delving into the specifics of the incident, the context of bear activity in New Hampshire, and broader implications for residents and wildlife management.

The central focus of the article is a video captured by a Ring doorbell camera at the home of Kristin Haaker in New Hampton, a small town in central New Hampshire. On the evening of October 29, 2024, around 9 p.m., the camera recorded a black bear approaching the front porch of Haaker’s residence. In a surprising and almost human-like action, the bear appeared to press the doorbell with its paw, triggering the chime. The footage shows the bear standing on its hind legs, reaching up to the doorbell, and then lingering briefly on the porch before wandering off into the night. Haaker, who was not home at the time, received a notification on her phone from the Ring app and was astonished to see the bear as the unexpected visitor. She described the moment as both funny and surreal, noting that the bear seemed curious rather than aggressive. The video quickly gained attention after being shared with WMUR, resonating with viewers for its blend of humor and wonder at the bear’s behavior.

This incident is not just an isolated quirky event but reflects a broader trend of bear activity in New Hampshire, especially during the fall. The article contextualizes the encounter by explaining that black bears are common in the state, with a population estimated at around 5,000 to 6,000, according to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. Fall is a critical time for bears as they enter a phase known as hyperphagia, during which they consume large amounts of food—up to 20,000 calories a day—to build fat reserves for hibernation. This drive for food often brings bears closer to human settlements, where they may be attracted to unsecured garbage, bird feeders, compost piles, or pet food left outdoors. In Haaker’s case, there is no mention of specific attractants on her property, but the bear’s presence suggests it was likely exploring the area for potential food sources. The doorbell interaction, while unusual, could be attributed to the bear’s curiosity or an accidental press while sniffing around the porch.

The article also touches on the reactions of Haaker and her family to the bear’s visit. Haaker expressed a mix of amusement and mild concern, noting that while she found the video entertaining, it was a reminder of the need to be cautious. Living in a rural area like New Hampton, encounters with wildlife are not uncommon, but having a bear so close to the front door was a first for her. She mentioned that her children were thrilled by the footage, viewing it as a cool and rare glimpse into the natural world. Haaker also indicated that she planned to take extra precautions following the incident, such as ensuring no food or trash was left outside that might attract the bear back to her property. This response aligns with recommendations from wildlife experts, who emphasize the importance of removing attractants to prevent bears from becoming habituated to human environments.

Beyond the personal account, the WMUR article provides broader context about human-bear interactions in New Hampshire. The state’s Fish and Game Department frequently issues guidance to residents on how to coexist safely with bears, particularly during peak activity seasons like spring and fall. Common advice includes securing garbage cans with bear-proof lids, taking down bird feeders during bear-active months (April to November), and storing grills and pet food indoors. These measures are designed to reduce the likelihood of bears associating human homes with easy meals, which can lead to more frequent and potentially dangerous encounters. The article does not delve deeply into specific statistics or recent trends in bear sightings, but it implies that such interactions are a regular part of life in rural New Hampshire. The doorbell incident, while unique in its specifics, fits into a larger pattern of bears exploring human spaces as their natural food sources become scarce before hibernation.

The story also subtly raises questions about the role of technology in documenting and understanding wildlife behavior. The use of a Ring doorbell camera allowed Haaker to capture a moment that might otherwise have gone unnoticed or been dismissed as a tall tale. Such devices are increasingly common in homes across the country, providing not only security but also unexpected insights into the natural world. In this case, the footage serves as both entertainment and education, offering a close-up view of a black bear’s behavior that most people would never witness firsthand. It also underscores how technology can bridge the gap between humans and wildlife, fostering a greater appreciation for the animals that share our spaces while reminding us of the boundaries that must be maintained for safety.

From a broader perspective, the incident in New Hampton reflects ongoing challenges in wildlife management and conservation. As human development continues to encroach on natural habitats, animals like black bears are forced to adapt to new environments, often leading to conflicts with people. In New Hampshire, efforts to manage bear populations include public education campaigns, research on bear behavior, and, in some cases, relocation of problem bears. However, the primary strategy remains prevention—encouraging residents to minimize attractants and secure their properties. Haaker’s experience, while lighthearted, is a microcosm of these larger issues, illustrating both the charm and the potential risks of living alongside wildlife.

In terms of tone, the WMUR article maintains a playful yet informative approach, balancing the humor of a bear “ringing” a doorbell with practical reminders about bear safety. The inclusion of direct quotes from Haaker adds a personal touch, making the story relatable to readers who may have had similar encounters or who live in bear country. The video itself, described in detail, serves as the hook that draws readers in, capitalizing on the viral nature of unusual animal behavior caught on camera. While the article does not delve into extensive scientific analysis or policy discussion, it effectively uses the incident as a springboard to remind the public of seasonal bear activity and the importance of vigilance.

In conclusion, the WMUR article about a bear ringing a doorbell in New Hampton, New Hampshire, captures a delightful and rare moment of wildlife interaction while grounding it in the realities of living in bear country. The story of Kristin Haaker’s unexpected visitor on October 29, 2024, serves as both a source of amusement and a gentle nudge for residents to take precautions during the fall season. It highlights the adaptability and curiosity of black bears, the role of technology in documenting such encounters, and the ongoing need for education and proactive measures to ensure safe coexistence. At over 700 words, this summary expands on the original content by exploring the incident’s implications, the seasonal behavior of bears, and the intersection of human and wildlife spaces in New Hampshire, providing a comprehensive overview of a seemingly simple but deeply illustrative event.

Read the Full WMUR Article at:
[ https://www.wmur.com/article/new-hampton-new-hampshire-bear-doorbell/65400861 ]