Wyoming’s Game and Fish Department is sounding a clear alarm for residents across the state. Public Information Specialist Christina Schmidt told listeners on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse that the ongoing drought has stripped the landscape of many natural foods that bears rely on, driving the animals into neighborhoods in search of calories.
Why bears are seeking food now
Schmidt explained that the September‑October period is traditionally a time of heightened bear activity. Bears enter a phase known as hyperphagia, during which they aggressively seek calories to build up fat reserves for winter. “We normally see an increase in bear conflicts at this time of year,” she said, “because they’re trying to put on weight. That’s normal biological behavior.”
This year, however, the normal pattern is being amplified by an exceptionally dry season. “Many of the natural foods are not there or are much less abundant,” Schmidt noted. “So we have bears already in this normal time of year where they’re definitely getting out and more widely trying to find food. But add on top that there’s some scarcity out there, so we’re seeing a lot of conflicts.”
What the department is hearing
According to Schmidt, the Game and Fish Department continues to receive a high volume of reports about bears rummaging through unsecured garbage, breaking into sheds, and approaching homes. “We are getting a lot of reports of bear conflicts, definitely more than in the past,” she said. The department’s field staff have documented multiple incidents where bears have been attracted to outdoor trash cans, pet food left outside, and compost piles.
Action steps for residents
Schmidt urged every Wyoming resident to take immediate steps to reduce attractants. Her recommendations include:
- Store garbage in bear‑proof containers or keep it inside a locked garage until collection day.
- Remove pet food, bird seed, and compost from outdoor areas, especially after sunset.
- Secure grills, grills, and outdoor cooking equipment when not in use.
- Close any openings in sheds, barns, or outbuildings that could provide shelter for bears.
She emphasized that these measures should remain in place through November, when bears typically begin to settle into their winter dens.
Why the public’s cooperation matters
When bears find easy food sources in human‑occupied areas, they become habituated, increasing the likelihood of dangerous encounters. “If we can reduce the attractants, we give bears a better chance to rely on whatever natural foods are still available and keep them away from our homes,” Schmidt said. The department’s goal is to protect both the wildlife and the safety of Wyoming’s families.
Looking ahead
The Game and Fish Department will continue to monitor bear activity throughout the fall and will issue updates as conditions evolve. Residents are encouraged to report any bear sightings or conflicts to the department’s hotline at 307‑555‑1234 or via the online reporting portal.
By securing garbage and other attractants, Wyoming citizens can help ensure that bears remain wild and that families stay safe during this challenging drought season.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
