Be wise about Bears

Warmer temperatures mean the possible sightings of black bears, reports the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.  Upon emerging from hibernation and leaving their winter dens, bears are ready to find food, and that can sometimes put them a little too close to people.  As good wildlife stewards, we can help keep bears from getting too close by becoming ‘BearWise’.  Never feed or approach bears.  Secure food, garbage, and recycling.  Remove bird feeders when bears are active.  Never leave pet food outdoors.  Clean and store grills.  Alert neighbors to bear activity.  The black bear is a symbol of Georgia’s natural diversity as it is the only bear found in the state and is a conservation success story.  For more information on living responsibly with bears, visit www.bearwise.org.