A black bear and two cubs were recently relocated by Wyoming Game and Fish Department because they had accessed a bird feeder in a local neighborhood. Now is the time that bears become hyperphagic – immensely hungry in an effort to fatten up before hibernation. Their desire to eat more calories often drives them to human food sources if they have been rewarded before. We know native berries are an important food source for bears, but we don’t often think about crabapples or birdseed that might be available on our own property.
Using a bear resistant trash can the first step, but other attractants may need to be secured as well. New County regulations (also adopted in the Bear Conflict Area in the Town of Jackson) prohibit wildlife access to crabapples, birdfeeders, or any food attractant (like livestock or pet food, honey, compost, or trash).
We can COEXIST with bears if we take pro-active steps before conflicts.
The Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance has been working for over 40 years to help humans coexist with our wild neighbors. Please share your opinions and ideas concerning grizzlies or other wildlife or conservation issue with Conservation Director Kevin Krasnow at Kevin@jhalliance.org
Thank you for your partnership in conserving the wildlife, wild places, and community character of Jackson Hole!
