Black bears are increasingly present in human-inhabited areas, leading to more common encounters. Understanding what draws these animals into populated spaces is important for fostering coexistence and reducing potential conflicts. Bears are naturally inclined to avoid human contact but will venture into settled areas when food sources become available.
Common Food Attractants
Food scraps discarded in garbage are a primary attractant for black bears, offering high-calorie meals with easy access. Bears possess an exceptional sense of smell, reportedly seven times stronger than a bloodhound’s, enabling them to detect food from considerable distances. Once they discover a reliable food source, they learn to associate the scent with a reward, leading to repeated visits.
Pet food left outdoors also readily attracts bears, providing an easily accessible meal. Bird feeders, containing calorie-rich seeds and suet, are significant draws. Even empty feeders can retain enough residual scent to pique a bear’s interest. Barbecue grills, with lingering food residue and grease, are highly appealing due to strong meaty aromas. Bears may damage grills investigating these odors.
Fruit trees and berry bushes are powerful attractants, especially when natural food sources are scarce. Ripe and fallen fruit offer an abundant, high-energy food source. Bears need to consume approximately 20,000 calories daily to prepare for winter hibernation, making such concentrated food sources appealing. Vegetable gardens can similarly lure bears into residential areas, particularly if wild food is limited. Open compost piles, especially those containing kitchen scraps, dairy, or sweet foods, are an irresistible treat for these opportunistic animals.
Non-Food Scents and Other Draws
Beyond direct food items, various non-food scents can attract black bears. Strong-smelling toiletries, such as toothpaste, shampoos, and deodorants, can pique a bear’s curiosity. Empty food containers and wrappers retain powerful odors that can draw bears in search of residual sustenance. Some scented cleaning products may also act as an unexpected lure.
Bears are also attracted to water sources, particularly during warmer months. This includes artificial sources like swimming pools, hot tubs, and decorative ponds, where they might seek to cool off. Human-provided water features can contribute to their presence near homes.
Minimizing Attraction Through Prevention
Preventing bear attraction involves consistently managing potential food sources around properties. All garbage should be stored in bear-resistant containers or kept indoors, such as in a garage or shed, until the morning of collection day. Washing trash containers regularly helps eliminate lingering odors.
Pet food should always be fed indoors. If outdoor feeding is necessary, any uneaten food must be removed immediately after the pet finishes eating. Bird feeders should be removed when bears are active, typically from March through November. If feeders are used, they should be hung at least 10 to 12 feet high and 5 to 6 feet away from trees, or installed on sturdy, baffled poles. Utilizing bird seed treated with hot pepper can also deter bears, as they are sensitive to capsaicin while birds are not.
Barbecue grills require thorough cleaning after each use, burning off any food residue and removing grease. Storing cleaned grills in a secure, locked shed or garage can prevent bears from accessing them. For fruit trees and vegetable gardens, harvest ripe produce promptly. All fallen fruit must be picked up daily and disposed of in bear-resistant containers, not in compost piles. Avoiding meat or sweet foods in compost and considering electric fencing around gardens and fruit trees can further reduce attraction.
Responding to a Bear Encounter
Encountering a black bear can be startling, but maintaining composure is key. If a bear is sighted, remain calm and avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, make your presence known by speaking calmly, waving your arms, and appearing as large as possible. Yelling or making other noises can help deter the bear.
Slowly back away from the bear while continuing to face it. If a black bear persistently approaches or makes physical contact, fight back aggressively. Focus blows on the bear’s face or muzzle. Unlike with some other bear species, playing dead is not recommended for black bear attacks. If bear spray is available, deploy it and ensure you know how to use it effectively.