Marylanders Urged to Avoid Attracting Bears

Black bears are starting to leave their dens after a long winter slumber and search for food. Since natural foods, such as plants, berries and insects are scarce in the early spring, bears are particularly attracted to human-provided sources. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds Marylanders to be proactive and exercise good judgment to avoid contact. 

“Keeping bears wild is a community effort that benefits both them and us,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said.  “Using care to avoid attracting bears now will help keep them away throughout the year.”

The department 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 it 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 Maryland Wildlife and Heritage Service Western Regional Office at 301-777-2136.