DEM reminds Rhode Islanders not to feed wild bears

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — As bears make their approach out of hibernation in seek for meals, the Rhode Island Division of Environmental Administration (DEM) is reminding everybody to take away all potential meals sources from their yards.

The DEM has obtained eight reported black bear sightings thus far this yr. These sightings embrace one every in Exeter, North Smithfield and Richmond, two in West Warwick and three in South Kingstown.

Black bears are the one species native to Rhode Island, in keeping with the DEM. Whereas black bears sometimes keep away from people, the DEM mentioned they’re not afraid to hunt out any potential meals sources.

With the climate getting hotter, the DEM is asking all Rhode Islanders to convey all chook feeders, unsecured trash cans, livestock feed and different simply accessible family and yard meals sources indoors.

“A bear can’t be blamed for riffling by way of a trash can, however we will actually change our personal behaviors for the protection of each the group and wildlife,” DEM spokesperson Mike Healey mentioned. “By educating bears that backyards aren’t their private grocery shops and people aren’t merchandising machines handing out snacks, we will preserve wildlife and our communities secure.”

The DEM mentioned bears are particularly interested in chook feeders as a result of they’re simply accessible.

Black bears even have the tendency to return to meals sources as soon as they’ve found them, which is one more reason why the DEM is asking everybody to take additional precautions.

Anybody who spots a bear ought to report it to the DEM’s Division of Legislation Enforcement, which is working intently with native police departments to trace sightings and educate residents.