Albuquerque City Councilor Dan Lewis called on May 12 for a black bear recently spotted in several West Side neighborhoods to peacefully turn himself in to local authorities.
The appeal comes after multiple sightings of the animal prompted both fascination and concern among residents. Lewis said, “The bear has now officially become one of the most recognized residents on the West Side. While we appreciate his interest in checking out our neighborhoods, parks, and possibly local trash service, we are encouraging him to cooperate fully with New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and return safely to the wilderness before somebody tries to put him on the ballot.”
Officials from the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish are working with Albuquerque Police Department officers in efforts to locate and safely relocate the bear. Authorities continue urging residents not to approach, feed, take selfies with, campaign for, or attempt adoption of the animal.
Social media posts have fueled lighthearted reactions such as memes and naming contests among locals. However, officials emphasize public safety as their top priority.
Lewis encouraged those interested in wildlife protection to support organizations like New Mexico Wildlife Center. He said, “We want this bear safe. We want residents safe. And most importantly, we want the bear to stop roaming neighborhoods like he’s looking for an Airbnb.”
Residents are reminded by officials to secure trash cans, avoid leaving pet food outside, and report any aggressive behavior by bears directly to Game and Fish.
The City of Albuquerque operates under a council structure where members elect leadership annually; it is responsible for establishing goals and approving budgets across its nine districts shaped by historical developments such as railroad expansion according to the official websiteand city’s timeline.
