Wildfire-Driven Bears Move Into Sedona Neighborhoods

Fueled by the Pocket Fire, black bears have wandered into Sedona’s neighborhoods, with multiple sightings in Uptown and the Village of Oak Creek reported over the past two weeks; officials say bears are attracted to food odors from bird feeders and trash, advise securing attractants and keeping pets indoors, and warn against feeding wildlife. If you see a bear, make yourself look big, back away slowly, and call the Arizona Game and Fish 24/7 line at 623-236-7201 if the bear poses a safety risk; lethal removal is rare.