According to the department, wildlife officers have responded to increased bear activity in communities including Jordan Hot Springs, Capitan and other areas of New Mexico as black bears continue their seasonal search for food.
Source: New Mexico Department of Wildlife
Photos: Courtesy
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The New Mexico Department of Wildlife is again reminding residents to be bear aware as officers report an increase in bear activity across the state, including bears entering neighborhoods and campsites in search of food.
According to the department, wildlife officers have responded to increased bear activity in communities including Jordan Hot Springs, Capitan and other areas of New Mexico as black bears continue their seasonal search for food. Officials say the recent increase is tied to a period when spring vegetation has faded but late-summer food sources such as acorns and piñon nuts have not yet matured. During drought years, natural food shortages can further increase the likelihood that bears will venture into neighborhoods and campgrounds.
“Bears move around the landscape searching for food,” said Assistant Chief of Wildlife Elise Goldstein. “At this time of year, the initial spring green-up has passed, but fruit and mast crops such as acorns and piñon nuts are not yet ripe. As summer progresses, these food sources improve and the amount of natural forage helps keep bear populations in balance with what the ecosystem can support. When drought conditions limit food resources, bears may have trouble finding food, drawing them to urban areas.”
The department says unsecured garbage remains the leading cause of conflicts between people and bears. Bird feeders, pet food, barbecue grills, fruit trees and other food sources can also attract bears into residential areas.
“Oftentimes bears show up in neighborhoods and campsites because they’re following food smells,” Conservation Officer Alyssa Flores said. “If folks secure their trash, clean their campsites, and never approach a bear, it helps keep everyone safe, including the bears.”
New Mexico is home to a single bear species—the American black bear—and wildlife officials emphasize that bears generally avoid people unless they become accustomed to finding food around homes or campsites. Residents are encouraged to remove bird feeders when bears are active, feed pets indoors or promptly remove uneaten food, thoroughly clean outdoor grills, and secure garbage and recycling containers.
If you encounter a bear, the Department of Wildlife advises against running. Instead, make yourself appear as large as possible, speak in a firm voice, wave your arms and slowly back away. Never place yourself between a sow and her cubs. In the rare event of an attack, officials recommend fighting back aggressively.
Residents who experience nuisance bear activity on their property should contact their local Department of Wildlife conservation officer. Additional information is available in the department’s “Keeping Bears Alive and Yourself Safe”guide.
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