FWP says time to be bear aware

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks wants to remind Valley residents that they aren’t the only ones happy to get back outside in the spring weather.

Radio collar locations, track reports and observations show that grizzly and black bears are emerging from their dens after hibernation. Males tend to come out earlier than females, and more bears will be leaving their dens in the next few weeks to move to vegetation in lower elevations.

According to an FWP release, residents should take down bird feeders, secure garbage inside a garage or shed, remove odorous substances and start feeding pets indoors to avoid attracting bears. It is illegal to intentionally feed ungulates, mountain lions and bears in Montana, including putting out grain, deer blocks, mineral blocks, garbage and food.

After emerging from hibernation a bears’ digestive system takes a few weeks to return to normalcy. While bears start by eating dry grass and roughage, they will be attracted to anything that smells like food.

FWP recommends a properly installed and maintained electric fence to protect livestock, poultry, beehives, rabbits, fruit trees and gardens from bears.

If bears do show up in a neighborhood, FWP recommends banging pots and pans to scare the bear and calling FWP after. Hikers, bikers, hunters and other recreationalists should carry and understand how to use bear spray.

For more information contact the following Wildlife Management Specialists: Tim Manley, 250-1265; Erik Wenum, 250-0062; Kim Annis, 291-1320.