Bird electric scooters show up unannounced in Cambridge, Somerville

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Electric scooters are showing up on streets and sidewalks around the country.

Now, the craze has reached New England -- unannounced.

BIRD Scooters confirmed to Boston 25 it has launched in Cambridge and Somerville. And in the company’s typical fashion, it rolled out completely without warning.

Our photographer spotted one scooter in Cambridge’s Central Square Friday afternoon.

The dock-free, electric scooters have been somewhat controversial. Some cities like San Francisco, Denver and St. Louis have even banned them until new regulations are passed.

A Somerville city spokesperson told Boston 25 they had no idea BIRD was launching Friday. The scooters also showed up unannounced in Providence the same day.

To use one of the scooters, you download the company’s app and scan a barcode on the one you want to unlock.

According to the app, the scooters are to be ridden on roads and you must have a valid driver’s license to operate one. It is also strongly suggested you wear a helmet.

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Cox Media Group