Wildlife officials warn about bear encounters this fall

Aug 12, 2023

BOISE, Idaho — The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) is cautioning residents in southwest Idaho of the potential dangers that black bears pose as the summer season ends.

IDFG says while appearances don't happen every day, black bears still periodically show up in neighborhoods next to wildlands. This is because the animals' natural food source begins to dwindle and they begin searching for more food.

"When we do have black bears make their way into town, it often happens as we get into September," Southwest Regional Wildlife Manager Ryan Walrath said in a press release. "When and whether we see bears in town partially depends on the availability of natural food sources in the surrounding mountains and foothills."

IDFG said they experience less reports of the bears when there is a good berry crop, but might receive more calls when it isn't a good year.

According to the Idaho Fish and Game's website, in Idaho, there are 20,000 to 30,000 black bears located throughout the forests and foothills.

During the fall, bears are preparing for their winter hibernation, and on average, black bears can gain as much as 30 pounds per week. When their natural food is limited and they roam into urban areas, the food is human-sourced items like pet food, bird feeders, backyard fruits, and garbage cans and dumpsters.

"In any case, particularly if you live in a place like the Boise Foothills, it's wise to prepare for the possibility that black bears could venture into your community looking to score an easy meal, and to proactively make your neighborhood less attractive to bears," Walrath said. "If homeowners make changes to their behavior before a bear becomes habituated to human food sources, it almost always results in better outcomes for both people in their community and the bear."

They continue to say that almost all cases that involve bear conflict revolve around human behavior. Some cases involve carelessly handling food and garbage.

Here are some recommendations to help keep you safe:

Idaho Fish and Game says if these steps are followed, the bear might pay a couple more visits but will lose interest because there will no food.

Residents who have any bear problems are urged to call Idaho Fish and Game.

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