Spring has sprung and our wildest residents have emerged from hibernation. Colorado is well-known for its diverse range of wildlife and we have an obligation to respect all members of our community who call Steamboat Springs home. Over recent years, the bear and moose population has grown and their presence in urban areas in no longer an anomaly.

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the most dangerous and potentially harmful encounters occur because people fail to leave the animals alone. Wildlife should not be harassed, captured, domesticated or fed.

In Steamboat, black bears have become accustomed to foraging in household trash and dumpsters. Recently, a young cinnamon colored bear, who was frequently dining out of Old Town resident’s trash cans, was euthanized after an unsuccessful relocation. This is preventable if residents use bear proof cans and don’t leave their trash out overnight. Deer, elk and moose have been known to bed down in backyards, posing the never-ending questions of how to avoid attracting unwanted guests. Follow Colorado Park and Wildlife’s Guidelines to learn how to prevent unwanted wildlife encounters: