Spring Is Here, And With It Some Hungry Bears

With spring and warmer weather arriving, black bears are emerging from their wintering locations, becoming more active, and during this time, bears are looking for easy food.

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) wants to remind South Carolinians to take down their bird feeders, secure their trash, and remove other accessible food sources if black bears are in the area.

The most common human-bear conflicts involve unsecured food. SCDNR officials say many South Carolinians live in close proximity to black bears and anywhere in the state could see a rambling bear on the move.

"The mere presence of a black bear does not necessarily represent a problem,” said Tammy Waldrop, an SCDNR black bear biologist stationed in Clemson. “Most bears are just passing through, but if there is an easy meal available, they will take advantage of it. The key to dealing with wandering bears is not giving them a reason to hang around. Removing any food source that would attract bears will significantly reduce any bear issues in residential areas.”

Waldrop added, “Bears that have access to human-provided foods often become dependent upon people, leading to destructive behavior and may lead to the bear’s demise.”

To help South Carolina residents better coexist with bears, SCDNR reminds you of these “Six At-Home BearWise Basics.”

• Remove bird feeders when bears are active. Birdseed and grains have lots of calories, so they are attractive to bears. Removing feeders is the best way to avoid creating conflicts with bears.

• Secure food, garbage and recycling. Food and food odors attract bears, so do not reward them with easily available food, liquids or garbage.

• Never feed or approach bears. Intentionally feeding bears or allowing them to find anything that smells or tastes like food teaches bears to approach homes and people looking for more.

• Never leave pet food outdoors. Feed pets indoors when possible. If you must feed pets outside, feed in single portions and remove bowls afterwards. Store pet food where bears cannot see or smell it.

• Clean and store grills, smokers. Clean grills after each use and make sure that all grease, fat and food particles are removed. Store clean grills and smokers in a secure area that keeps bears out.

• Alert neighbors to bear activity. See bears in the area or evidence of bear activity? Tell your neighbors and share info on how to avoid bear conflicts.

SCDNR officials remind residents that bears are wild animals and should be respected. The officials add black bears are usually shy, evasive and non-aggressive toward people.

For black bear emergencies, call 1-800-922-5431 or 911.