CASPER, Wyo. — Bears are waking out of hibernation and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department on Monday urged people to take steps to stay safe this spring and summer.
“Even the most experienced recreationalist or rural homeowner who has lived in bear country for years can wind up in a close encounter or conflict situation with a bear,” Kyle Garrett, Bear Wise Wyoming coordinator with Game and Fish, said. “We want people to stay diligent to avoid any potential bear conflicts.”
People who live in black or grizzly bear country are urged to keep garbage, livestock, pet feed and birdseed properly stored in a way that prevents bear access, according to Game and Fish. People should keep BBQ grills clean and stored in a garage or shed when not in use if possible in order to avoid attracting bears to places where people live or camp.
“The majority of the people in rural areas of Wyoming where bears roam do an excellent job of securing attractants away from bears, but it’s important to remain vigilant and remember to secure attractants to minimize the potential for conflict,” Garrett said. “In most conflict situations, bears do not interact with people; rather, they obtain unsecured human foods, livestock or pet foods, garbage or birdseed.”
People recreating outdoors are encouraged to hike in groups and make noise. Game and Fish also encourages people to carry bear spray approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and to carry the bear spray in an easily accessible way. Bear spray should only be used as a “deterrent and as a last resort to avoid a physical encounter,” according to Game and Fish.
People should also remain alert when in bear country and learn to recognize areas of heavy bear use. Game and Fish encourages people to learn to identify tracks, scat and diggings and to also avoid an area if they smell a carcass.
“Congregating magpies or ravens often indicate a nearby potential food source for bears,” Game and Fish said. “Remember, when bears scavenge large animals, they often cover what they can’t eat with brush or dirt and may stay nearby for several days to defend it from other large carnivores.”
Game and Fish also asked that the public notify the department of any conflicts with bears as soon as possible.
“Many times, Game and Fish can take action to effectively deter ongoing conflicts, which is good for people and bears,” the department said.
