WYOMING — Wildlife officials are urging residents to stay alert as black bears wander farther from their natural habitats in search of food. Earlier this week, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) confirmed that a subadult male black bear was captured near an elementary school in Gillette and safely relocated to a more remote area.
Why bears are moving into town
WGFD officials attribute the increased bear activity to the severe drought that now covers 99.7% of Wyoming, according to Drought.gov. The agency explained that limited natural food sources—especially a poor berry crop this year—are forcing bears to travel greater distances and explore human‑occupied spaces such as neighborhoods, school grounds, and trailheads.
“Due to ongoing drought conditions and a reduction in natural food sources, black bears in northeast Wyoming are traveling widely in search of resources,” the department said in a statement.
Recent encounters
Residents across the state have posted videos of bears near homes and on hiking trails. In early August, a hiker on a Teton Pass trail was injured during an unexpected bear encounter. The recent Gillette incident, although hundreds of miles from the Jackson area, underscores a broader pattern of wildlife seeking supplemental calories as they enter hyperphagia—a period of rapid weight gain before winter hibernation.
WGFD and the Teton Conservation District also noted that unusual winter and spring weather patterns have contributed to a suboptimal berry harvest, further limiting a key food source for the animals.
What residents can do
The department is asking the public to report any bear sightings in residential or developed areas promptly. In Jackson, callers can reach WGFD at (307) 733‑2321 or contact local law enforcement. Quick reporting gives wildlife managers more options to address the situation safely and humanely.
Officials recommend securing attractants such as bird feeders, pet food, and unsecured garbage. Removing these food sources can reduce the likelihood that bears will approach homes and schools.
Looking ahead
As drought conditions persist, WGFD expects bear movements to continue throughout the summer and into early fall. The agency will monitor the situation closely and provide updates to communities as needed. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, keep attractants out of reach, and cooperate with wildlife officials to protect both people and the state’s iconic black bears.
Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.
