Black bears have arisen from their winter slumber and are once again roaming the landscape looking for food. The late spring is delaying the growth of bears’ natural food sources, which is likely contributing to a rise in bear-human conflicts this year according to Vermont Fish & Wildlife bear biologist Forrest Hammond.
Bears in Vermont are thinking ahead to winter and, looking to fatten up, are currently in search of easy calories. Compost can become a bear attractant – as with trash bins, bird feeders, and pet food – if not properly managed.
Vermont’s muzzleloader season antlerless deer hunting permit applications are on Vermont Fish & Wildlife’s website (www.vtfishandwildlife.com), and now printed applications are also available from license agents statewide.
Conflicts between people and Vermont’s healthy bear population are becoming more common and Vermont State Game Wardens and biologists have been busy fielding calls from the public. Reports of bears frequenting human areas have been on the rise this summer.
