Be Bear Aware

Approximately 10,000 black bears call Colorado home. During a dry summer, our backyards can be an easy food source for a hungry forager. Once a bear identifies a plentiful stash, they will keep returning. Black bears (named for the species and not the color) require 20,000 calories per day through late summer and fall to prepare for hibernation. A 50 lb. bag of bird seed carries a whopping 87,000 calories. Bears’ sense of smell is 100 times greater than humans, which means it can detect trash and BBQ debris from far away.

Policy dictates that a bear must be euthanized after it has been caught and tagged once for dangerous human interaction. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife is urging residents and recreators to do their part in order to avoid potential conflict. The City of Steamboat Springs has issued an ordinance requiring bear proof trash cans by March 31, 2023.

DO

• Be responsible about trash, use a bear proof trash can and keep in a secure location.
• Burn off food debris and regularly clean a barbecue grill.
• Pick ripe fruit and collect fallen fruit from trees in your yard.
• Speak to neighbors and encourage them to follow guidelines.
• Bears are highly dexterous. Keep bear accessible doors and windows locked.

DON’T

• Do not feed wildlife.
• Do not put trash or recycling out at night. It can reduce the chance of a bear visit from 70% to 2%.
• Do not hang bird feeders. Use other options to attract birds such as water tables, nesting boxes and flowers.
• Do not leave trash or food inside a vehicle.
• Do not store food including pet food or bird seed under a deck, shed or any bear accessible location.
• Do not run from a bear. Use a loud voice and ensure it has a way to escape. Never get between a mother and her cubs.