Punta Gorda's Bear Spa Day: FWC Rescues Hot Tub-Hopping Black Bear!

Jamaica Way, Punta Gorda Isles, Charlotte County, Florida, USA - A rather unexpected visitor made a splash in Punta Gorda Isles, Charlotte County, catching the eye of local residents this past Sunday morning. A black bear was spotted lounging in a backyard hot tub, happily taking a dip. It seems this furry giant found itself quite at home as it removed sofa cushions to make a cozy spot before settling down for a six-hour nap. What a way to spend a sunny day!

The Punta Gorda Police Department alerted the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) around 9:30 a.m., after locating the bear in a backyard on Jamaica Way. With the bear’s relaxed demeanor, it was clear this wasn’t an ordinary day in the neighborhood. Officials quickly jumped into action, setting up a trap on the property and employing hazing techniques to encourage the bear to leave its newfound oasis.

Keeping it Wild

Black bears are the only bear species found in Florida, and they are more common than you might think. The FWC estimates that around 4,050 black bears roam the Sunshine State. Adult male black bears can weigh between 250 to 350 pounds, with the largest known to tip the scales at a hefty 760 pounds. Female bears, on the other hand, are smaller, typically weighing between 130 and 180 pounds. Interestingly, while male bears often roam a territory of about 60 square miles, female bears tend to stay within a 15 square mile area. It’s as if they have a sense for the best spots to find food and cozy napping locations! FWC has reported these fascinating statistics to give insight into their habits.

It’s worth noting that bears are opportunistic omnivores, with their diet heavily influenced by what’s available in their surroundings. About 80% of their meals consist of plant matter, including acorns, berries, and nuts. The remaining 20% is made up of insects and the occasional scavenging of meat. What’s impressive is that during the fall months, bears ramp up their consumption to about 20,000 calories a day to prepare for winter—a behavior known as „hyperphagia.“ They don’t enter full hibernation like bears in colder regions, but rather a state of „winter lethargy,“ where they may slow down significantly without entering a deep sleep. Florida Wildlife Federation details how these behaviors are geared towards survival in Florida’s unique climate.

A „Bear“ Necessity

After enjoying its hot tub retreat and a good snooze, the bear decided it was time for a change of scenery. Moving to a nearby vacant lot, it climbed a tree, demonstrating its impressive climbing skills. FWC personnel kept a watchful eye, eventually placing a humane trap at the tree’s base. It paid off on Monday evening when the bear was spotted sleeping in a tree in a neighbor’s yard on Hibiscus Ct. The gentle giant was safely trapped and relocated later that night, diverting what could have been a troublesome encounter with locals.

As charming as this anecdote is, it’s essential to remember the wild animals we share our space with. Encountering a black bear may be a rare event for some, but it’s a matter of routine for Wildlife agencies. Such sightings remind us of the importance of respecting wildlife and maintaining a safe distance, even when the bear seems harmlessly whimsical, lounging in a hot tub. After all, there’s something to be said for ensuring these wonderful creatures can thrive in their natural habitat, away from our backyard baths.

Punta Gorda Isles may have had quite the memorable moment this weekend, but it highlights the ongoing coexistence between humans and wildlife in Florida. An unusual event? Certainly. A reminder of our wild neighbors? Absolutely.