Massachusetts pear bandit caught on camera

GOSHEN, Mass. (WWLP) – A homeowner in Goshen sent 22News photos of the culprit responsible for eating pears off their tree.

A 22News viewer said their tree had an abundance of pears this year, however, one morning a large amount was missing, and nothing was left on the ground. The bewildered homeowner set up a camera nearby to see if someone was taking the pears.

Orchards across the region prepare for busy fall season ahead

Pear season in Massachusetts is between August and October and is a good source of vitamin C and fiber.

The eastern coyote is well established in Massachusetts, except on Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. They are typically shy and can frequently be seen individually, in pairs, or in small groups where food is commonly found.

Coyotes thrive in suburban/urban as well as rural areas and will utilize any naturally available food, such as small animals, birds, insects, and fruits, as well as artificial food such as garbage, pet food, birdseed, and compost. It is important to take precautions to eliminate any food sources in your yard and neighborhood to avoid any problems with coyotes.

According to the MSPCA, officials estimate that there are nearly 12,000 coyotes within the state. MSPCA Advocacy Specialist Elizabeth Magner says that having this many coyotes in such populated areas is relatively new in our state but they're here and they're not going anywhere.

Local News Headlines

Will this be the driest September on record in Massachusetts?