Jackson, WY – A recent video submitted by a Buckrail reader shows a black bear climbing into a bird feeder on Nelson Drive in East Jackson on the night of August 14. The footage, recorded by Rafael Fitzsimmons, a driver for Start On-Demand, highlights the growing need for residents to protect attractants as bears become more active during the cooling season.
Bear activity on the rise
Local wildlife officials note that cooler temperatures signal bears to bulk up for winter, increasing their foraging range. In addition to the feeder incident, a separate clip from August 10 captured a bear wandering near Elk Run Lane after dark, and a hiker reported a bear encounter on Teton Pass while walking her dog.
Town and county guidelines
The Town of Jackson and Teton County require that bird feeders be made inaccessible to bears year‑round. Bear Wise Jackson Hole, a community outreach program, offers a checklist of precautions to keep human food sources out of reach:
- Remove bird feeders between March and December, when bears are most active and birds have natural food sources.
- Hang any remaining feeders at least 10 feet above ground and at least 4 feet away from trees, poles, or other structures.
- Install a catch pan that is at least twice the feeder’s diameter to catch spilled seed.
- Consider replacing feeders with birdhouses, birdbaths, or native vegetation that attract birds without providing large piles of seed.
Other attractants to manage
Pet and livestock owners are also reminded to keep feed indoors or limit outdoor feeding to amounts that will be consumed in a single sitting. Spilled feed should be cleaned up promptly, and pet food bowls should be brought inside at night. When bear activity is observed near a property, owners are encouraged to bring animals indoors if possible.
Fruit‑bearing ornamental trees and shrubs are prohibited under local ordinances. Residents must harvest ripe fruit promptly and remove any fallen fruit. Electric fencing is recommended for existing fruit trees, and non‑persistent varieties such as crab apples may be replaced with native plants.
Compost safety
Compost bins should be bear‑resistant or enclosed, and only yard waste or non‑food items should be placed inside. Food scraps, meat, dairy, and other strong‑smelling items attract bears and should be avoided. Regular rotation and cleaning of the compost area help eliminate lingering odors.
These recommendations aim to protect both wildlife and the community. By securing attractants, Jackson residents can reduce the likelihood of dangerous encounters and help bears find natural food sources as they prepare for winter.
Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.
