Colorado Parks and Wildlife Warns of More Bear Conflict

Colorado has some incredible scenic landscapes that are home to some of the most beautiful wildlife out there.

However, there’s plenty of dangerous animals that call this place home. 

For example, the newly reintroduced wolves have been a touchy subject, since they have been the cause of several cattle attacks. 

There’s also plenty of times where people have had run-ins with some wild animals as well.

Sometimes they’re rather innocent, even fun. Other times, it can be extremely dangerous.

Recently, a bear attacked someone out in Steamboat Springs, which was a major cause for concern.

However, this would appear to be an ongoing issue . 

Colorado Parks and Wildlife Reports Higher Bear-Human Conflict This Year

Colorado Parks and Wildlife came out with a press release this weekend that warned people about the increased contact between humans and bears recently. 

This problem has been the most common in the Southwest portions of the state, and has directly affected places like Durango.

Traps have had to be set at a significantly higher rate than before, and CPW has had to work hard to make sure these bears stay away from humans.

What concerns officials is that this is ahead of hyperphagia, which is when bears begin to eat much more beginning in late summer to prepare for hibernation.

This is usually when bears are more likely to be seen in public and are more aggressive, so the high amount of human conflict they have had recently is concerning.

What To Do to Prevent Bear Encounters in Colorado

CPW officials are imploring residents to keep their trash well secured and only to take it out the morning of pickup.

It is also important to keep everything close to your house close, like garage doors. 

Finally, anything that may have food smells, like a garbage bin or a grill, should be regularly cleaned.

If there is a bear on your property, CPW suggests that you yell at it, make loud noises, and throw things at it to scare it away.