With bears waking up after a long hibernation, especially momma bears with babies in tow, make sure to keep your garbage cans and other items that can hold sources of food out of the way of the hungry black bears.
Anyone living near bear habitat is reminded to be aware of bears this spring and check their property for food sources that could attract bears.
“Bears are roaming around now with the lack of snow and warmer weather, so interactions with people are going to start in central Minnesota which includes the southern part of the bear range,” said Eric Nelson, wildlife animal damage program supervisor for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
As bears emerge from hibernation, their metabolism gradually ramps up, and they will begin looking for food at a time when berries and green vegetation can be scarce. Pet food, livestock feed, birdseed, compost or garbage can attract bears. Attracting bears to yards can lead to property damage and presents dangers to bears.
Only black bears live in the wild in Minnesota. They usually are shy and flee when encountered. Never approach or try to pet a bear. Injury to people is rare, but bears are potentially dangerous because of their size, strength, and speed.
The DNR does not relocate problem bears. Relocated bears seldom remain where they are released. They may return to where they were caught or become a problem somewhere else.
People should always be cautious around bears. If bear problems persist after cleaning up food sources, contact a DNR area wildlife office for advice. For the name of the local wildlife manager, contact the DNR Information Center at 651-296- 6157 or 888-646-6367, or visit mndnr.gov/contact/locator.html.
For more about living in bear habitat, visit mndnr.gov/livingwith_ wildlife/bears.
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