Bear Coexistence PSA from VT Fish & Wildlife Department
Bear Coexistence PSA from Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department
Bear activity typically increases in June, so the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is reminding everyone that now is an especially important time to secure food sources that could attract bears to your neighborhood.
At this time of year, unsecured garbage is the single biggest cause of bear conflicts in our state. Here are three steps for keeping your garbage from attracting bears:
Dispose of garbage frequently. If you have pick-up services, wait until the morning to put your garbage out.
Make your garbage inaccessible. Store garbage in a secure structure and a bear proof container. Learn how to make your garbage can bear proof here: https://vtfishandwildlife.com/sites/fishandwildlife/files/documents/Learn%20More/Living%20with%20Wildlife/Living%20with%20Bears/bear-resistant-retrofit-polycart.pdf
Demand bear proof dumpsters for your community. Your garbage hauler should be able to provide these.
A complete list of bear coexistence tips covering topics like composting, protecting your backyard chickens, and discouraging bears from getting too comfortable in your yard is available on the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department website at: https://vtfishandwildlife.com/learn-more/living-with-wildlife/living-with-black-bears
As always, if you notice bears seeking food in their yards or in public places like campgrounds, report the incident at: https://anrweb.vt.gov/FWD/FW/WildlifeBearReport.aspx