Keep properties clean to reduce human-bear interactions

BILLINGS – During the fall, bears are busy eating anything they can to fatten up for winter hibernation. To keep both bears and humans safe, Montana residents need to keep properties clean and free of any attractants. Common attractants include open garbage cans, barbeque grills and fruit from trees.

Recently, Lockwood, Big Timber, Absarokee and other communities have been experiencing more bear conflicts than usual. Natural food sources such as berries are in short supply this year, so bears may be more likely to seek out food in residential areas. Montana is bear country and all residents should be prepared for the presence of bears, even in neighborhoods.

To remain safe and prevent bears from getting into trouble, FWP is asking residents to eliminate any opportunity for bears to find food in or around their homes, businesses and vehicles. Residents should store all garbage, barbecue grills, pet food, horse pellets and livestock feed in a locked building. They should remove all bird feeders and clean up apples, berries and other potential food sources from their yard. Bear-proofing also includes thoroughly cleaning decks and patios around barbecue areas to remove odors from previous cooking.

Finding food before denning season is a bear’s only objective this time of year. A bear will not remain in an area where attractants have been secured, properties are clean, and food is not available.

If you see a bear near your residence or need to report a conflict, please call your local bear specialist at the contact number found at FWP’s website: https://fwp.mt.gov/conservation/wildlife-management/bear/contact.

For more information on staying safe in bear country, please visit:

https://fwp.mt.gov/conservation/wildlife-management/bear/be-bear-aware.

 

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