Colorado is witnessing an unprecedented surge in bear encounters, with two recent incidents highlighting the growing conflict between wildlife and humans. As drought conditions persist, black bears are increasingly venturing into residential areas in search of food, leading to a record number of attacks this year.
The first incident occurred on Friday at the Park Creek Campground in south-west Colorado. A woman reported being bitten by a black bear while inside her tent. Wildlife officers found puncture wounds on her arm, claw marks on the tent, and several dark hairs at the scene. The Monte Vista area wildlife manager, Rick Basagoitia, suggested that the bite was likely an act of surprise rather than aggression, noting that there was no history of conflict in the area.
Recent bear encounters in Colorado
Just two days later, another bear encounter was reported in Durango. A 17-year-old girl woke up to find a black bear in her bedroom after it entered through a cracked window. The bear swiped at her, leaving three scratch marks on her stomach. District wildlife manager Luke Clancy remarked that the girl was fortunate to have multiple blankets covering her during the incident.
These incidents bring the total number of reported bear attacks in Colorado this year to 10, a number officials describe as unprecedented. The statewide drought has significantly reduced the natural food supply for black bears, which typically feed on berries, fruits, and insects. As they prepare for hibernation, bears require up to 20,000 calories per day, driving them to seek alternative food sources in human residences.
Increasing bear-human conflicts
Nationwide, there has been a rise in bear-human conflicts. In August, a bear broke into a New Mexico man’s home and mauled him to death, marking a rare fatal attack for the state. Wildlife officials have urged the public to secure their trash and lock windows, doors, garages, and vehicles to prevent further incidents.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has reported over 6,000 bear sightings this year, nearly double the number from last year. As bears enter a phase of hyperphagia, their activity is expected to increase while they search for food before hibernation. CPW has launched an education campaign to raise awareness about bear safety and how residents can reduce conflicts.
Preventing bear conflicts
Preventing bear conflicts requires a collective effort. CPW recommends the following BearWise tips to keep bears wild:
- Never feed or approach bears. Intentionally feeding wildlife or letting them find accessible food is illegal.
- Safely store trash, animal feed, and other attractants. Lock up trash receptacles and food scraps to eliminate powerful odors that attract wildlife.
- Never leave pet food outdoors. Feed domestic pets indoors or thoroughly clean up bowls immediately after any outdoor feeding.
- Clean and store outdoor grills. Burn off grease and food particles after every use, and store grills inside a secure garage or shed.
- Secure windows and doors. Keep all bear-accessible windows and doors closed and locked, including garage doors.
- Know what to do if a bear does enter your home. If a bear is in your house, leave immediately if you can safely do so. Leave all exit doors open to give the bear a clear escape route, and never try to shoo or corner the animal out of your home.
CPW encourages Coloradans to report bear activity and conflicts to help manage and mitigate the growing issue. As the drought continues, residents are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the well-being of the wildlife.
