I’ve heard that black bear sightings are on the rise in Dutchess County. How can I avoid contact with bears?
Birdseed is a favorite food of bears. According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation: First and foremost, bears are readily attracted to back yards because of the presence of bird feeders. The problem often escalates to other food sources such as garbage cans, barbecue grills and compost piles as bears become bolder and more acclimated to people. If you take away the food you will take away the bear. To minimize the chance of a bear encounter around your home, eliminate bird feeders as soon as bears emerge from their dens in March. Also, secure household garbage indoors, feed your pets indoors, keep your barbeque grill clean and grease-free and do not compost food outdoors. Click on the following links for more information that is helpful in preventing bear problems: 1. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s webpages regarding preventing bear problems. 2. The Center for Wildlife Information’s “Be Bear Aware” webpages.
