DNR safety reminders when encountering a bear
LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) – There have been multiple reports of bears roaming around the area.
The DNR says this isn’t out of the ordinary for this time of year, but it has some reminders about what to do if you see one.
If you see a bear while hiking through the woods, make yourself look big, make loud noises, back away slowly, and get to safety.
And if you have a pet with you make sure you restrain it from making contact with the bear.
You want to scare it but not seem like a threat.
If there’s one roaming around your neighborhood, secure things like your garbage and grill and bring things like pet food or bird feeders inside.
One wildlife expert says if you leave it alone, it shouldn’t be a problem.
“As long as the bear has easy access to its natural habitat and it’s not impacting people, damaging property, or threatening anyone, it can just be scared away and left to roam on its own,” said Anna Jahns, WI DNR Wildlife Technician.
If you are having an issue with a nuisance bear call the USDA wildlife services at 1-800-433-0663.
And remember to NEVER get between a bear and its cubs.
You can find more information about bear safety at dnr.wi.gov or by clicking here.
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