Residents of Boulder, prepare for some furry visitors. Bears are on their seasonal prowl for pre-hibernation calories, and they’ve been noted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife to be nosing through unsecured trash and closer to livestock than is comfortable. As the bears enter hyperphagia, their quest for food becomes even more urgent, leading them into more urban areas in search of easily accessible snacks. With at least 15 of these creatures, babies included, being spotted in town, the city is calling on everyone, not least the students of the University of Colorado Boulder, to up their bear-proofing game.
Now, how does one discourage a bear from rummaging through the rubbish? First off, Boulder insists on bear-resistant trash and compost bins that should be properly latched, not overflowing, a measure mandated citywide, says the City of Boulder. Furthermore, ripe fruit should not be left hanging about, neither in trees nor on the ground, and those with feathered or four-legged friends must ensure they’re safely contained. Any strong scents, even from a simple coffee cup, are a big no in your cars, and food wrappers have got to go too.
Additional nuggets of advice include that bird feeders, another temptation for bears, should be removed and all spilled seeds tidied up, do not tempt fate with outdoor pet food dishes, and after grilling, clean and stow your grills safely indoors. Even your hiking habits need to adapt; keep your pups leashed, as per the leash restrictions on the trails. For any bear encounters, residents are encouraged to promptly report sightings to local authorities…