Officials from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department are urging residents and campers to be wary of bears during the summer season.
June is considered a “transition period” between spring and summer foods, which causes bears to seek out many readily-available foods people tend to have available.
Andy Timmins, Fish and Game bear biologist says this lack of food as well as a boost in tourism contributes to bear-related complaints.
Businesses are urged to remove anything that could lure a bear to their property.
Fish and Game recommends that people take the following action to reduce the chances of a bear visiting your home or campsite:
- Stop all bird feeding by Apr. 1 or as soon as snow melts.
- Clean up any spilled birdseed and dispose of it in the trash.
- Secure all garbage in airtight containers inside a garage or adequate storage area, and put garbage out on the morning of pickup, not the night before.
- Avoid putting meat or other food scraps in your compost pile.
- Don't leave pet food dishes outside overnight.
- Clean and store outdoor grills after each use.
- Do not leave food, grease or garbage unsecured around campsites.
- Store food and coolers in a closed vehicle or secured area while camping.
- Never intentionally feed bears
