BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — Idaho Fish and Game continues to receive reports of black bears around homes, neighborhoods and public areas in the Wood River Valley as bears search for food ahead of winter.
Bears are currently in hyperphagia, according to Fish and Game, which is a period of intense feeding when they can consume more than 20,000 calories a day. Garbage, barbecue grills, pet food, bird seed and fallen fruit can attract bears into residential areas. When bears repeatedly find human food, they can become food-conditioned, increasing the risk of conflicts with people and pets.
Recent reports include a sow and two cubs in Hailey’s Draper Wood River Preserve. After an Aug. 12 encounter involving a person walking on the preserve’s boardwalk, authorities temporarily placed caution tape in the area. Signs warning visitors of bear activity remain posted.
Fish and Game has also received multiple reports of bears in West Ketchum, including bears attempting to access garbage containers and barbecue grills. Even wildlife-resistant garbage containers may not prevent a determined bear from reaching food.
Residents are encouraged to secure garbage and other attractants in a garage or locked shed and wait until the morning of collection to put garbage containers outside. Keeping food sources inaccessible helps prevent bears from becoming accustomed to residential areas.