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Bear Sightings - Awareness

Take down feeders
Posted on: May 19, 2022 - 1:19pm
Bear at Feeder

Please note that black bear sightings have been reported near Sparrow/Raccoon/East Pleasant Lake/Pheasant Road area on the east side of North Oaks areas.  During these times of year, typically late spring and early fall, please take down bird feeders that may be a source of food for Bears, and consider putting out garbage by 7:00 a.m. on the morning of pick up day instead of the night prior. Taking down bird feeders will also help prevent the spread of avian flu which is currently impacting our winged wildlife.

Tips from DNR for around the yard:

  • Any time you feed birds, you risk attracting bears. Avoid feeding birds from April 1 to Nov. 15. If you still wish to feed birds, hang birdfeeders 10 feet up and 4 feet out from the nearest trees.
  • Do not put out feed for wildlife (like corn, oats, pellets or molasses blocks).
  • Do not leave food from barbeques and picnics outdoors, especially overnight. Standard coolers are not bear-proof. Clean and store barbeque grills in a secure shed or garage away from windows and doors after each use.
  • Harvest garden produce as it matures, pick any fruit left on trees and collect any fallen fruit. Locate gardens away from forests and shrubs that bears may use for cover.
  • Store pet food inside and feed pets inside. If pets must be fed outdoors, feed them only as much as they will eat.

This will remove easy food sources and encourage any bear to safely and naturally move along its path.  If you do encounter a bear:

  • Pick up small children and pets
  • Face the bear directly and try to appear as large as possible
  • Spread or wave your arms, ideally holding a sweater or coat
  • Slowly back away and to the side (sideways is considered non-threatening movement).
  • Talk in a calm, low and monotone voice. 

Refer to the tips from Ramsey County Sheriff’s office as well as tips from the DNR on how we can do our part to minimize bear problems.  .  If there is a bear in your area, please call the City at 651-792-7750 with the location so residents in that area can be made aware.