Living in Bear Country

Garbage should be stored where bears can neither smell nor gain access to it: either in a bear-resistant container or inside a building bears can't get into. Use outside garbage cans for non-food items only. Haul garbage to an approved disposal site as often as possible, but at least once a week, to avoid the build-up of odors.

Pet food should be stored in bear-resistant containers – such as a 55-gallon drum with a lid that seals – preferably inside a sturdy building that bears can’t get into. Don’t leave leftover pet food out overnight.

Dogs and other pets should be kept inside at night. If possible, feed pets inside. If you must feed pets outside, feed only during the day in amounts that will be consumed immediately. Don’t leave bowls and pet food out overnight.

Bird feeders can also attract bears. Feed suet only during the winter months, and suspend hummingbird feeders out of reach of bears – at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from any tree trunk or pole.

Closely supervise children when they are playing outdoors. Make sure they are home before dusk and not outside before dawn. Talk with children about bears and teach them what to do if they encounter one.

If bears get into garbage or other food, REMOVE THE ATTRACTANT IMMEDIATELY AND NOTIFY THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT. Avoid giving bears a repeated food reward. Bears that associate people and places people live with easy food rewards can become dangerous, and may eventually have to be euthanized.

More information and videos about your stay in Bear Country please visit the Wyoming Game and Fish Living In Bear Country webpage Living in Bear Country | Wyoming Game & Fish Department