Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers responded to another bear attack in Steamboat Springs on September 3rd after an adult was injured by a black bear while resting in a backyard.
Bear Approaches Steamboat Springs Resident
The victim was napping in a patio chair during the afternoon when they noticed a bear approaching. The individual remained motionless in an effort to avoid startling the animal.
The bear reportedly huffed and popped its jaw before reaching out and scraping the victim’s knee. A neighbor intervened with bear spray, preventing the bear from re-engaging with the victim. The person suffered minor injuries and did not seek professional medical treatment. CPW is not releasing additional information about the victim out of respect for their privacy.
The incident comes as black bears across Colorado enter hyperphagia, a period of intense feeding before winter hibernation. Bears spend much of this time searching for as many calories as possible to prepare for the months ahead.
Drought Is Increasing Bear Activity
Severe drought conditions have reduced natural food sources in parts of Colorado. The lack of available food can push bears into populated areas where they may find easier access to garbage, pet food and other attractants.
CPW is urging residents to take steps to prevent bears from becoming accustomed to human food and residential areas. Residents should secure trash and animal feed, keep pet food indoors, clean outdoor grills and make sure windows and doors are locked. CPW also warns people never to intentionally feed or approach bears.
What To Do During A Bear Encounter
Anyone who encounters a black bear should avoid running, which can trigger a chase response. If a bear has not noticed you, quietly move away. If it sees you, slowly back away while maintaining awareness of the animal.
If a bear approaches, CPW recommends standing your ground, waving your arms and yelling until the bear leaves. If a black bear makes contact with a person, do not play dead. Instead, fight back aggressively.
Colorado residents can find additional information about preventing conflicts and safely living around bears through CPW’s BearWise guidance.