Wisconsin DNR issues bear safety tips for spring

By Blake Jackson

As spring arrives in Wisconsin and people head outdoors, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds everyone to be bear aware. Black bears emerge from dens this time of year, searching for food and territory. While more common in the north, bear activity has increased in southern Wisconsin too.

Bears are typically solitary and live in forests, but their keen sense of smell can lead them to populated areas, especially in spring and fall, attracted by potential food sources. To avoid conflicts, it's crucial to minimize attractions around your home.

Here are some key steps:

• Remove bird feeders: Bird feeders are like buffets for bears, and they'll keep coming back for refills. Clean up any spilled seeds when taking down feeders. Remember, bears are active all day, so nighttime removal isn't enough.
• Minimize trash odors: Bears have a strong sense of smell and love food scraps. Rinse food containers before throwing them away, and store leftover meat scraps in the freezer or fridge until garbage day. Keeping your trash cans in a closed building and locking dumpsters can also help.
• Secure pet food: While skittish, bears are motivated by food. Leaving pet food outside unattended can attract them, and they might see pets as threats. Keep pets on a leash while recreating outdoors and avoid leaving them outside for long periods.
• Clean public grills and tables: Food residue left behind on grills and picnic tables can attract bears. Do your part by cleaning these surfaces after use in public areas to minimize bear interactions.
• Never feed bears: This includes both intentional feeding and unintentional sources like leftover scraps. Bears that associate people with food are more likely to approach humans in the future, creating dangerous situations.

Encountering a Bear

If you see a bear near your home, scare it away by making loud noises or throwing objects from a safe distance. Provide the bear with a clear escape route and never corner it. Avoid turning your back or running away.

If you encounter a bear in the woods, stay calm and make loud noises to scare it off. Back away slowly and find a safe place to wait until the bear leaves. Never approach a bear, and don't try to break up a fight between a pet and a bear.

For recurring bear problems, contact the USDA Wildlife Services for assistance at 1-800-433-0663 for properties in southern Wisconsin or at 1-800-228-1368 for properties in northern Wisconsin. Remember, a little prevention can go a long way in keeping both you and bears safe this spring.

Photo Credit: pexels-aaron-brewer