Watch Out For Black Bears In Idaho

Black bears are turning up in places Idaho residents don’t normally expect to see them, from neighborhoods in the Treasure Valley and Pocatello to the Wood River Valley.

Idaho Fish and Game says dry conditions are making natural food harder to find, prompting some bears to travel farther in search of food and water.  And once they reach neighborhoods, an unsecured garbage can, bird feeder, pet food, fallen fruit or dirty barbecue can quickly become an easy meal.  Fish and Game said the best way to prevent a bear from becoming a problem is to remove those attractants:

• Garbage is one of the biggest attractants. Store garbage in a bear-resistant container when possible, and make sure lids are securely latched. If a bear-resistant container is not available, keep garbage inside a garage or secure shed until the morning of pickup. Do not leave garbage at the curb overnight.
• Bird feeders should also be removed during the months when bears are active. Fish and Game recommends removing bird feeders between April and mid-November, then putting them back out after bears have denned for the winter.
• Pet food should be kept indoors, and coolers, refrigerators and freezers should not be stored outside where a bear can access them. Residents with fruit trees should pick ripe fruit promptly and clean up fruit that falls to the ground. Barbecue grills should also be cleaned and secured rather than left as an easy source of food odors. 

Photo: Idaho Fish And Game

IFG said these steps may seem small, but to a bear trying to consume thousands of calories every day, the difference between an empty neighborhood and one filled with easily accessible food can be significant.

The Department also stressed, residents should report bear activity to Fish and Game promptly.  Early notification gives wildlife managers more options. It allows them to determine whether a bear is simply passing through, whether attractants are drawing it into an area, and whether additional action is necessary. Waiting until a bear has become comfortable around people can dramatically change the situation. 

Photo: Idaho Fish And Game

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