A black bear sow attacked a Boulder, Colorado, man while he was walking his dogs late Saturday evening. According to a press release from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the man was walking two dogs on-leash along High Street in Boulder around 11pm on September 6th. In response, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officers warn Boulder to take extra precautions related to bear safety.
Black Bear Attack in Boulder
The Boulder man was walking his dogs along High Street when, according to a statement made to CPW officers, a black bear sow with a cub nearby started to charge at him and his dogs. The man tried to run away but tripped over the dogs’ leashes, and the sow then scratched the man across his back. He faced only superficial injuries.
Upon arrival to the scene, CPW officers found an overturned trash can and evidence of bear activity. Several hours of searching for the sow and cub wound up unsuccessful. Multiple sows and their cubs have been in the Boulder area in recent weeks, with the city’s proximity to the mountains and natural food supply making it a top location for the wild animals.
“Colorado Parks and Wildlife should always be the first call when bears are spotted in town. The resident experiencing bear conflicts should contact CPW directly as we are able to provide education, advice and track wildlife movement in order to make more-informed management decisions. While bears are trying to bulk up for winter, it’s especially important to stay vigilant about trash so they are not rewarded with non-natural food.” – Area Wildlife Manager Jason Duetsch.
Hyperphagia
During the late summer and fall, black bears enter a phase called hyperphagia. Throughout this time, they will eat up to 20,000 calories per day in order to sustain themselves through the winter. In fast food terms, that’s around 20 chicken sandwiches, 10 large orders of french fries, 10 soft drinks, and 10 milkshakes.
CPW marks the most sightings and conflict reports throughout the state during this time, as the animals become more active and visible in human spaces. The number one attractant to bears in trash. Residents and visitors must secure trash in bear-resistant cans and lock away all garbage and food until the morning of pick-up.
Residents and visitors should also keep garages, cars, and windows locked, and take bird feeders down to reduce the likelihood of bears eating trash. Once a bear has found its way into human food or garbage, they’re much more likely to return to the area again and again in search of further food.
