(WTAQ-WLUK) — A sure sign of spring in Wisconsin is bear sightings.
In early spring, black bears emerge from their winter dens, hungry and possibly grumpy.
Bears on the hunt for food may show up in your backyard.
Like this one in Waupaca that was caught red-handed, helping itself to some bird feeders.
If you encounter a bear, the DNR has tips on staying safe around the animal:
- Wave your arms and make noise to scare it away.
- Back away slowly and seek a safe location where you can wait for the bear to leave.
- When scaring a bear away, make sure it has a clear escape route; never corner a bear.
- If you encounter a bear while in the woods, stay calm and do not approach the bear.
- Never approach a sow with cubs.
- For your safety, do not attempt to break up a fight between your pet and a bear.
While black bears typically avoid contact with humans, they are naturally curious animals. If a bear finds a food source, it will likely return for more.
The DNR recommends:
- Do not knowingly feed a bear.
- Completely remove bird feeders, even during daytime hours — bears are active during the day and may cause problems even if the feeders are out only during that time.
- Clean areas where bird feeders were located so that accumulated deposits of spilled seed are removed.
- Reduce garbage odors by rinsing food cans before putting them in covered recycling containers or garbage cans.
- Keep meat scraps in the freezer until garbage day, and if possible, keep garbage cans in a closed building until the morning of pick-up.
- Be sure to lock commercial dumpsters.
- Keep pet food inside or inaccessible to bears even during daytime hours.
- Keep grills and picnic tables clean.
