Black Bear Activity Increases Across Deschutes County as Fall Approaches

DESCHUTES COUNTY, Ore. — The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Unit is reminding residents and visitors to take precautions around black bears following several bear-related calls over the past month.

Officials said the recent increase in bear activity is typical for this time of year. A video recently captured in South Deschutes County near the intersection of South Century Drive and Vandevert Road shows a black bear moving through the area. The bear was reportedly attracted to a nearby elk carcass.

Black bear activity typically increases in late summer and fall as the animals forage heavily to build fat reserves before winter. Wildfires can also cause bears to relocate in search of food and suitable habitat.

Although black bears are generally shy and non-aggressive, wildlife officials said residents should expect to see and potentially encounter bears through the fall.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Unit is urging people to help keep bears wild by avoiding actions that can cause them to associate people and homes with food.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to:

• Never approach, disturb or feed a black bear.
• Secure garbage and other potential food sources that could attract wildlife.
• Avoid leaving food or other attractants on porches, at campsites or in vehicles.
• Keep pets, particularly small dogs, away from bears and under control when outdoors.

Officials warned that bears that gain access to human food can quickly become food-conditioned, meaning they learn to seek out food around homes, campsites, garbage cans and vehicles.

Food-conditioned bears can become a significant nuisance and cause serious property damage while searching for high-calorie food. Bears have been known to break into vehicles, windows and garages.

Feeding or intentionally attracting bears can also put pets at risk. Small dogs may be viewed as prey or could be injured during an unexpected encounter with a bear.

Wildlife-related concerns, including bear sightings, should be reported to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife or an Oregon State Police Game Trooper. Those agencies are responsible for responding to wild animal-related issues and can provide guidance on appropriate action.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife offers additional information about safely living with black bears and helping keep them wild. ODFW: Help Keep Bears Wild

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