Conservation Corner Update By Rhonda R. Friese

By Rhonda R. Friese
Bears, bears, bears… we’ve got them! Todd County’s bear population has been steadily increasing. Unseasonably warm weather rousted them early, before natural food sources could provide for them. Hungry bears have been searching back yards throughout the state, and Todd County is no exception. There have been nuisance bear complaints in Moran, Turtle Creek, and Grey Eagle Townships, so far. Bears have been sited throughout the county. We suggest people remove sources of temptation to encourage nuisance bears to move on and prevent other bears from coming around.
On average, bears will move on within 10-14 days after food sources have been removed. They have a phenomenal sense of smell and “follow their nose” to locate goodies. “Buttoning up” around your yard will also reduce chances of other unwelcome guests (skunks, raccoons, opossums) moving in. With the strong bear population we have, I would suggest all Todd County residents follow these guidelines, even if they haven’t had problems… yet.
If you have a nuisance problem, contact your local Conservation Officer for assistance. Normal protocol is for people to remove source(s) of temptation and wait 10-14 days to see if the bear(s) will move on. Usually they do. You have a right to protect yourself and your property. If a bear is causing immediate danger or significant property damage (not just bird feeders and garbage cans) you can destroy the bear. You must contact a Conservation Officer within 48 hours of destroying a bear.
The MN DNR website has helpful information about living with wildlife: www.dnr.state.mn.us. There is information helpful to beekeepers, which would help gardeners as well.