Funny Video: New York Black Bear Vs Electric Fence

New York black bears are hungry. As colder weather approaches and they get ready for their long winter's nap, food is a high priority. So what do you do if you have one of their favorite snacks on your property?

Bears are constantly spotted roaming Hudson Valley neighborhoods looking for bird feeders, garbage cans, and any other edible thing that they can get their paws on. This also includes chickens. One bear recently learned the hard way about how some New Yorkers are protecting their birds.

NYS DEC via Facebook

Bears Vs. Chickens in New York

"Keeping backyard chickens has become an increasingly popular hobby with many New Yorkers", began a recent post from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC). "If you have (or are thinking about getting) chickens, bees or other livestock, a properly installed and maintained electric fence is the best way to keep them safe and avoid conflicts with bears and other wildlife".

Black Bears Attack New York Farm Animals

The video (below) isn't the only proof that bears don't always get what they want. Just across the state line in Connecticut, a security camera caught amazing footage of a bear's unsuccessful trip into a pig pen. Instead of gorging on pork, the hooved heroes miraculously chased away the hungry omnivore in a stunning display of self defense.

Bear Vs. Donkey in Hudson, NY

Unfortunately, there's not always a happy ending. Last year in Hudson, NY, a daring black bear reportedly made off with a miniature donkey. It was only the farmer's heroic efforts that saved the remaining donkey from a similar fate when they bear returned.

6 Easy Ways to Keep Hungry Bears Out Of Your Yard

There's no sure way to keep the newly awakened bears out of your yard, but there are a few things you can do that will help prevent attracting them.

See Live Reindeer and Polar Bears at These 10 Upstate New York Destinations

At Christmastime, we see the images of reindeer and polar bears on every imaginable item, from greeting cards to plush toys to prints on our own pajamas. But where can we go to see these animals up close and in person?

Here is a list of ten places where you and your family can enjoy the experience of seeing a live reindeer, polar bear, majestic elk, or funny little penguin in Upstate New York.