Florida residents are being advised to become “bearwise” by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in light of increasing conflicts between humans and black bears. The FWC’s call to action comes after reports of bear sightings in residential neighborhoods, which poses a danger to both the bears and the humans. The best way to avoid such conflicts is to limit bears’ access to natural and human-provided food sources, which will prevent bears from losing their natural fear of humans.
The FWC recommends that residents secure their pets and livestock to prevent bears from attacking them or their food. Pets should be kept inside, especially during the night, and livestock should be kept in a secure enclosure. Additionally, keeping trash secure and storing garbage in sturdy sheds or garages can prevent bears from gaining access to leftover food scraps, which can attract bears to residential areas. Modifying existing garbage cans to make them more bear-resistant or using a bear-resistant container is another effective way to prevent bears from accessing garbage.
Bears that lose their natural fear of humans are more likely to cause negative interactions with humans. As a result, residents are advised to avoid feeding bears under any circumstances and to discourage their neighbors from doing so. Furthermore, pet owners are advised to make loud noises, bang doors, and switch on lights to alert bears scavenging in their vicinity to move out of the area before letting their pets out.
Encountering a sick or injured bear should be reported to the FWC. Residents are asked not to approach a bear under any circumstances, as bears are wild animals and can be dangerous. Instead, the FWC’s toll-free number, Wildlife Alert, at 1-888-404-3922 needs to be contacted to report the sighting.
According to the FWC, bears are an essential part of Florida’s wildlife heritage and offer unique recreational opportunities. Therefore, residents are encouraged to appreciate black bears from a distance while following simple steps to minimize conflicts.
“Simple steps like securing garbage and removing other food sources will help prevent conflicts with bears,” said FWC bear management program coordinator David Telesco. “We encourage residents to follow these guidelines and help us conserve Florida’s wildlife.”
With the right actions, residents can take proactive steps to maintain harmony between humans and black bears. Florida is a thriving ecosystem that has a significant black bear population, and it is imperative to learn how to coexist with wildlife while preserving the ecological balance of the state.
In conclusion, “bearwise” practices can go a long way in ensuring the continued existence of black bears and human safety in Florida. The FWC encourages residents to take the necessary steps to prevent conflicts, be alert, and live in harmony with the bears that share our community.
