WYG&F: Drought Driving Bears into Unexpected Locations in Search of Food

Wyoming Game and Fish Department Public Information Specialist Christina Schmidt appeared on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse asking the public to please secure bear attractants now until November. 

Schmidt said the department continues to get reports of bears getting unsecured food, particularly garbage. Reported conflicts remain high and the Game and Fish is seeking the help of the public to keep bears safe during these last couple months before they enter dens. 

C. Schmidt 

With the current drought conditions, bears have begun to search for food farther than usual and into territory they do not typically travel. During the appearance, Schmidt said if someone can hear the Sheridan Media broadcast, they are in an area bears can and will travel seeking food.

C. Schmidt 

If bears don’t get a food reward in an area, they will usually move on. If they get food items, they will likely stay in the area. And many times, relocating the bear fails to keep them from returning to human populated areas. Once they understand that these areas have food, and many times calorie-rich food, they will seek those areas time and again. This puts the bear and humans in danger of future conflicts. 

Hunters, anglers and anyone recreating this fall should practice good bear safety protocol and prevent potential conflicts, as bears are roaming much more widely this year and may be in those unexpected places. 

The Bear Wise page on the Game and Fish website has good information for anyone living or recreating in bear country.