MISSOULA – State wildlife officials are offering up some advice in helping to avoid neighborhood bear conflicts.
Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks notes that even in areas where natural food sources are plentiful, bears can be tempted by attractants in our yards and neighborhoods, especially in the fall as they prepare for hibernation.
Residents are reminded to keep garbage indoors until the day of collection; consider using electric fencing around chickens, garden areas and compost piles; and move other attractants such as pet food and fruit indoors or into a secure building.
Domestic fruit is one of the primary attractants in the region in the fall and FWP advises picking fruit as it becomes ripe and remove any fruit on the ground. All fruit should be stored inside or in a secure garage or shed or consider electric fencing.
There are several organizations that can lend a hand in the Missoula area. Visit missoulabears.org and follow links to “community resources” and “attractant management” for more information.
FWP notes that west of Missoula, in the Huson and Alberton areas, contact the Ninemile Wildlife Workgroup online by phone at 406-626-4274 or by email.
Several local organizations also make minimizing bear attractants part of fun family events, according to FWP.
On Saturday, Oct. 13 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. the Ninemile Wildlife Workgroup is hosting a Cider Pressing and Chili Cookoff at the Nine Mile Community Center.
Folks can bring your backyard apples and get assistance pressing them into cider for free. The free event is open to anyone, and a chili lunch is offered for $5/person. Learn more here.
Click here for more information on minimizing backyard bear attractants, visit fwp.mt.gov and following links to “fish and wildlife,” and “living with wildlife.”
