As the weather warms and people across the area begin spending more time outside, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages the public to be bear aware and take steps to prevent potential conflicts with black bears this spring.

Every spring, Wisconsin’s estimated 24,000 black bears emerge from their winter torpor and leave their dens in search of food and potentially new territory. These explorations sometimes cause unexpected interactions between black bears and the public.

Some rules :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

If a black bear is near your home or cabin, from a safe location, try to scare the bear away by making loud noises (like clanging pots and pans together) or throwing objects in the bear’s direction. Black bears tend to avoid interactions with people if escape is possible, so make sure it has a clear escape route – never corner a bear.

If you encounter a black bear while in the woods, stay calm and do not run. Wave your arms and make loud noises to scare it away. Back away slowly and seek a safe location from where you can wait for the bear to leave. Never approach a bear. For your safety, do not attempt to break up a fight between a pet and a bear.