GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY — More black bear sightings have been popping up around the Grand Traverse region.
“As long as people understand they’re in bear country and kind of keep the attractants to a minimum,” Wildlife Biologist Steve Griffith said. “We should be able to live in harmony with them.”
While it’s important not to underestimate them, the good news is, black bears are not usually aggressive. They mainly come out at night, and they’re especially attracted to areas with sugary foods and bird feeders.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources suggests that if you see a black bear in your yard to make a loud noise.
The noise can be from a horn, pots and pans or loud yells.
To prevent bears from coming into your yard, they suggest putting your trash inside the garage or putting bleach around your trash can to change the smell. Griffith suggests taking extra caution before heading out at night.
“They certainly will defend themselves,” Griffith said. “A sow with cubs is going to defend her cubs. I mean, that’s a well-known cliché. Don’t get between a mama bear and her babies, that’s for sure. So, if you’re concerned about bears in the area, maybe you go out with your dog if you’re going to let them out at night or something like that, just, kind of a normal parental, due diligence.”
If you cannot get a bear to leave your yard, the DNR says to call 9-1-1.