Beware Bear season arrived early

The early emergence of bears in Boulder, Colorado, has prompted local wildlife officials to recommend increased precautions for residents. Though mid-April is the usual timeframe for bear activity, this year has seen interactions with humans starting sooner. Boulder mandates bear-resistant trash containers in specific areas and encourages residents to secure trash and bird feeders to prevent encounters. Increased sightings have been reported east of Broadway, where bear-resistant containers are not legally required but are advised. Last year, the city experienced a relatively peaceful bear season, with only one bear euthanized and another relocated.

Wildlife officials warned that easy food sources lead to bears remaining in neighborhoods, raising safety concerns. Additionally, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has launched a $1 million grant program to aid communities in bear-proofing efforts, with applications due by May 30. These initiatives aim to minimize human-bear conflicts and promote safer coexistence.