Hey friends and neighbors across Alton and the Lakes Region — as we enjoy the winter birds returning to our yards, it’s also the time of year when black bears can still be active, curious, and hungry. While bird feeders bring joy and color to our yards, they also can unintentionally become a big invitation for bears.
Here in the Lake Winnipesaukee region, bears are a normal and important part of the ecosystem. But when bears learn they can get an easy meal from feeders, trash bins, or outdoor pet food, they begin to associate residential areas with food. That’s when problems start — for us and especially for the bears.
Once a bear becomes food-conditioned, it loses its natural fear of people. This increases the risk of property damage, close encounters, and unfortunately, it can lead to the bear being relocated — or worse. The best way to protect bears is to prevent these habits from forming in the first place.
• Bring feeders inside overnight or temporarily remove them during active bear months• Hang feeders 10+ feet high and 5+ feet away from climbable poles or branches• Keep the ground under feeders clean of spilled seed• Store birdseed inside, not in sheds or on porches• Use safflower or nyjer seed mixes — less appealing to bears• Secure household trash, compost, grills, and pet food
Instead of seed feeders, consider:• Suet cages brought out only during cold daytime hours• Planting bird-friendly native shrubs (winterberry, viburnum, coneflowers)• Heated water bowls — birds need water just as much as food
Small steps make a huge difference in reducing bear visits and keeping wildlife truly wild.
We all love seeing the chickadees, cardinals, and nuthatches return — and we can enjoy them without inviting a 300-lb neighbor to dinner. 🐻❤️
Let’s take pride in being good stewards of the Lakes Region environment.Thanks for helping keep wildlife safe — and our yards peaceful.
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