Spring's approach means greater bear awareness

SANDERS COUNTY – With February coming to an end, and warmer temperatures starting to arrive, wildlife will soon begin waking up from their winter hibernations and residents will need to take precautions.

Bears usually hibernate for a set period of time, waking up in early to mid March or April; during milder winters, though, some bears have been known to wake up early to forage for food. The conditions in Sanders County, as well as the time of year, mean the chances of bear sightings are beginning to increase.

Residents can begin implementing some precautions now to be prepared for when the animals wake up.

One of the biggest things people can do to avoid bears encroaching on their residence is to keep it clean; securing trash, pet food and outdoor storage will lessen the chances of bears, and other animals, trying to find food there. While it is a little early to be an issue, fruit trees can also be a draw for bears when fruit is allowed to sit on the branch or the base of the tree is not cleaned up.

Residences are not the only place people may encounter bears; the warmer, mild temperatures make for idea conditions for hiking, walking and other outdoor activities through the wilderness. People engaging in these activities should stay alert of their surroundings so they can spot any wild animals. Having bear repellent, something to make loud noises and similar products, could help scare animals away or avoid an encounter altogether.