Black bears have become a relatively common sighting occurrence in Chautauqua County. They live near and around us and, right now, the bear cubs are ready to leave their dens with mama bear leading the way. It’s a special time to be aware. Throughout the spring and early summer months, black bears have depleted fat reserves and will search extensively for easily-to-find, calorie-dense foods. This can lead to an increase in the potential for human-bear interface (possible conflicts) near homes and residential areas, especially now, before the spring green-up, when natural food sources for bears are scarce. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton released a reminder note last week to remove or secure outdoor food sources that may attract black bears.

“Across New York state, black bears are emerging from their winter dens looking for something good to eat, including human-created sources like bird feeders, grills, and pet food,” Lefton said. “Repeated access to these food sources can make bears bold, so DEC encourages New Yorkers to practice the “Bear-Wise” basics to help keep bears wild and prevent the potential for human-bear conflicts.

What does practicing the “Bear-Wise” basics mean? Here are the essentials: Empty feeders, clean spilled seeds, and let nature feed the birds from spring through fall. Secure or store garbage and recycling cans in a sturdy building. Clean and remove residual grease and food from grills and smokers. Keep pets and livestock food indoors; those with chicken coops or apiaries should consider installing an electric fence to protect flocks and hives. Lastly, neighbors should alert neighbors to any bear activity so they can take these same precautions.

Of course, New Yorkers are advised never to feed or approach bears. Feeding bears intentionally is not only dangerous but also illegal. When bears become accustomed to being fed by outside garbage cans, bird feeders, and other means, they can become a serious threat to people and property.

In 1972, DEC hosted the first Eastern Black Bear Workshop, which included bear biologists from 11 states and the U.S. Department of the Interior. At the time, only approximately 2,000 to 3,000 black bears were in New York. This year, more than 100 black bear management experts representing 25 States and Canada and representatives from academia, national parks, non-governmental organizations, and private industry attended this event two weeks ago near Lake Placid. DEC estimates there are currently approximately 8,000 bears in New York. This conservation success story demonstrates the effectiveness of DEC’s science-based approach to black bear management in New York state, and the public’s support and compliance with bear safety measures are crucial to maintaining this success. The knowledge and experience shared at these workshops is invaluable to improving black bear management in New York.

By taking the time to remove any attractant food sources and encouraging neighbors to do the same, the public is actively contributing to bear safety. This responsible action helps keep bears away from people, homes, and neighborhoods, thereby ensuring the well-being of both bears and humans. For more info, visit https://bearwise.org/. A total of 124 black bears were harvested by Chautauqua County hunters during the last big game hunting season, the largest was 370 pounds taken near Busti. Let’s be aware of how to be safe all year long.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

April 26: NYS Safe Boating Course, Southtowns Walleye Assoc. of WNY, $35 fee, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., first responders/military $10 discount, 5895 Southwestern Blvd., Hamburg; Info: Brian Plecas, 716-225-7055.

April 26-27: NYS youth turkey hunt weekend. One bearded bird allowed per youth. Visit: https://dec.ny.gov.

April 28: Chautauqua County Federation of Sportsmen annual banquet and fundraising dinner, Lakewood Fish & Game. For tickets, call Frank Shoenacker, 585-406-5764.

NOTE: Send calendar info or related outdoor news to forrestfisher35@yahoo.com.