Avoid problems with black bear
(Photo credit: Wikipedia) With the arrival of spring, black bears have begun to emerge from their dens in search of food. State wildlife officials are encouraging homeowners statewide to take precautions to reduce the potential for problems with hungry bear. "More than 800 complaints about bear are called in each year," says Brad Koele, Department of Natural Resources wildlife damage specialist. Koele says many of these conflicts occur as a result of some type of attractant such as bird feeders, garbage cans, grills, or pet food left outside and accessible to bear. Although conflicts can occur anytime bear are active it is especially important to remove attractants during the spring when bears are emerging from dens and natural foods are limited. "Just because you see a bear does not mean it's a causing conflict," Koele adds. "Black bears normally avoid contact with people. However, when food sources are available bears can quickly learn to asso...
