DNR Urges Western Marylanders to Be Mindful of Bears

Bears are leaving their winter dens in search for food now that their long winter slumber has come to an end.  Since natural foods are scarce in the early spring, they often seek out human-provided sources. Those living in, or visiting bear country can help keep Maryland’s black bears wild by being proactive and exercising good judgment. 

DNR urges residents to clean or remove anything outdoors that may smell like food. This includes:

• locking garbage in a bear-proof trash container, or keeping inside until the day of pick-up;
• rinsing trash containers with ammonia to eliminate food odors;
• storing cooking grills inside or keeping them clean of food residue; and
• removing birdfeeders from April through November ─ there are many wild food sources for birds during this time period.

For more information on living and camping around bears click here or call the Western Region DNR Service Center at 301-777-2136.

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