Wildlife is Waking Up: Bear Warnings

Just a few short weeks ago, the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife reminded Bay Staters to take precautions against bears who are currently waking up from their long winter hibernation. They warned that black bears are now active and seeking food. If you live in northern Middlesex County, Worcester County, and western MA, steps should be taken to avoid a run in with these animals.

Hide Potential Food Sources

A large part of the warning includes taking precautions in backyards, specifically about potential food sources. For example, Wildlife experts suggest removing bird feeders that may be attracting black bears to neighborhoods and residential areas.MassWildlife also suggests securing beehives, chickens, and livestock. Properly maintained electric fencing is the only way to protect chickens or beehives from bears. Unfortunately, hungry bears looking for a quick meal will bypass natural items like skunk cabbage for an easier meal at a bird feeder, beehive, or chicken coop.

Bears Are Hungry After Hibernation

Every spring, black bears come out of hibernation hungry and ready to find a meal. Officials warn that each year, the 4500 black bears in our region seem to be expanding more eastward. This means that larger suburbs and cities will eventually need to be wary of when hibernation time is ending for our region.

Protecting Your Home & Property

Educating yourself and your neighbors about proactive measures to avoid conflicts with bears is one of the best ways to protect yourself, your family, pets, and property. Further suggestions to protect yourself include the following ideas. Keep garbage in a shed or garage and do not put it by the curb until the morning of pick up. Clean the grease off a grill after each use. The smell and drippings may be just enough to attract wildlife to your yard. Do not leave pet food or bowls outside overnight. Finally, if you compost, do so responsibly during this time of year. Avoid putting meat scraps in the bin as they draw wildlife of all kinds. Remember, spring means that everything is awakening, including black bears. Keep your family safe by taking these precautions. If you do happen to encounter a bear, seek shelter and call the authorities immediately.