It's that time of year again when Boulder residents need to be extra mindful of their furry neighbors. With bears going through hyperphagia to bulk up for the winter, encounters with these animals are more common. According to the City of Boulder, there's been a notable uptick in bear activity, leading to heightened concern about the proper storage of trash and the securing of livestock.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is imploring Boulderites to strictly adhere to the city's regulations on waste disposal. All trash and compost containers that are left out overnight must be bear-resistant – this isn't a polite suggestion; it's a must to significantly reduce the chance of bear visits. If you need an upgrade for your bins, you really should contact your waste management service posthaste.
However, trash isn't the only attractant on the bears' radar. That tree in your backyard dropping fruit like it's going out of style? Time to pick that up. If you've got chickens clucking around or goats roaming your property, ensure they're behind secure enclosures or properly permitted electric fencing. And for the love of all that is holy, keep the food wrappers and the remnants of your morning coffee out of your car.
The city's advice goes beyond waste management, it stretches to leisure activities and household routines. If you're hiking, be sure to follow dog leash restrictions. And hey, don't just casually leave your bird feeders to become bear buffets – take them down. After flipping those burgers on the grill, make sure to clean and store it somewhere secure, preferably indoors. “Remove food wrappers, coffee cups and any item with the slightest odor from vehicles and ensure the doors are locked,” as per the City of Boulder. And remember, reporting bear sightings can help to better manage the cohabitation of human and bear populations.
