As temperatures warm and natural food sources change throughout the summer, bear activity is increasing across Sierra County. Now is the time to take steps to reduce attractants around your home and help prevent conflicts between people and wildlife.
Store garbage in a secure building, bear-resistant container, or other bear-proof location. Do not place unsecured garbage cans outside until the morning of pickup day or just before heading to the transfer site.
Avoid feeding pets outdoors whenever possible. If cats or dogs must be fed outside, remove all food immediately after feeding. Pet food is a major attractant for bears and other wildlife.
Keep barbecue grills clean and free of grease and food residue. Clean up fallen fruit from fruit trees and gardens. Store bird seed, livestock feed, and other animal feed in secure containers. Do not leave coolers, ice chests, or food items unattended outdoors.
Keep doors and windows secured, especially when food is present inside homes, garages, sheds, and vehicles. Never intentionally feed bears or other wildlife.
A bear that becomes accustomed to human food sources often loses its natural fear of people and may repeatedly return to homes and neighborhoods. In many cases, these situations can ultimately result in the bear being destroyed for public safety reasons.
By removing attractants and securing food sources, residents can help keep bears wild and reduce the likelihood of dangerous encounters.
If you encounter a bear that is acting aggressively, attempting to enter an occupied structure, or poses an immediate threat to public safety, call 911 immediately and notify the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office.
For non-emergency issues or questions regarding bear activity, contact the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office at (530) 289-3700.
Let’s work together to keep our communities safe and keep wildlife wild
