⏰Early Wake-Up Call⏰

If you think spring is ahead of schedule this year, you’re right. The US Weather Bureau reports that after a strong El Nino helped produce the warmest winter on record in the lower 48 states, spring is arriving up to three weeks early in much of the country.

The USA National Phenology Network, which uses temperature and weather data to track leaf-out, reports that many parts of the US are also seeing the earliest leaf-out on record, which is generally considered the first visible signs of spring. 

Warmer temperatures and an early start to the growing season has bears across much of the country waking up early as well, and looking for food.

What you can do to help:

  • Take down bird feeders and clean up the surrounding area.
  • Never leave unsecured trash outside. Store trash in a sturdy locked building until the morning of pick up, or in a bear-resistant container.
  • Please don’t leave food out for wildlife or bears. You won’t be helping; you’ll be teaching bears a dangerous lesson. Once bears learn to associate people with food, conflicts often follow.
Courtesy of BearWise®www.BearWise.org

SEASONS OF THE BEAR

Black bears are awake from spring through fall. Spring weather has arrived earlier this year so it’s time to be “Bear Aware”!

Fast Fact…

Although large animals, black bears are surprisingly quick and agile. They can sprint up to 35 miles per hour and climb 100 feet up a tree within 30 seconds.

It is also a fact that black bears are seen in our area.

Black bear attacks are extremely rare. Most bears will retreat before you are even aware of their presence. That said, always stay alert and know the best ways to avoid problem encounters.