GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The DNR has issued its annual reminder to Michigan residents: Remove your bird feeders.
The guidance comes as Michigan black bears prepare for hibernation, which typically begins in October and ends in December.
Prior to hibernation, bears spend months foraging for foods rich in calories to bulk up their fat reserves, including bird feeders. For bears, fat means survival, as they can lose up to one-third of their body weight during hibernation.
“While foraging, bears may move into new areas in search of food or return to a location where they previously found a meal,” said Rachel Leightner, wildlife outreach coordinator for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division. “During this time, we ask everyone to consider removing their bird feeders and any other potential food sources until bears have entered their dens in December.”
Bears have an excellent sense of smell and will follow their nose to find food, according to the DNR. Natural foods such as acorns, hickory nuts and hazelnuts are abundant, but bird seed in feeders is an especially appealing food source because it is high in calories and easy to access.
“Even if you enjoy wildlife watching and seeing black bears, it’s critical for the health and safety of a bear to not eat from human-provided food sources. Bears that seek out these types of foods are more at risk to lose their fear of humans, which ultimately may lead to an unfortunate outcome for the bear,” Leightner said.
Bears also may be attracted to grills with food debris, unsecured trash or outdoor pet foods, the DNR said.
Additional tips and information about preventing potential conflicts with bears can be found at Michigan.gov/Wildlife.
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October 21, 2021 at 02:29AM
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Remove bird feeders while black bears prepare for hibernation, Michigan DNR says - MLive.com
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