With Spring Almost Here, Black Bears Begin Emerging Across the Hudson Valley

Spring Is Almost Here, Bears Return to the Hudson Valley

It may not feel like it (thanks March snowstorm!) but Spring will be here before you know it in the Hudson Valley.

We're not the only ones excited that the weather is changing, so are the black bears in the neighborhood!

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation black bears will come out of semi-hibernation between late March and early April. Fun fact, black bears never fully hibernate in the winter.

When these bears leave their semi hibernating state they'll be on a mission looking for food. With that being said there are some safety tips residents should keep in mind this spring.

Black Bear Home Safety Tips for Hudson Valley Residents

The Town of Shandaken New York in Ulster County shared a helpful post on how to keep your home safe as the black bears emerge.

The NYS DEC reminds New Yorkers "Feeding bears intentionally is illegal."

On the DEC Bearwise website explains "Bears will readily utilize human-created food sources and repeat access can make bears bolder." They add:

This can lead to an increase in human-bear conflicts around homes and residential areas, especially when natural food sources are scarce.

According to the post homeowners should focus on bringing in any kind of food sources. All bird feeders should be removed by Mid-March.

Trash cans should be locked into sheds or garages, or bear proofed garbage containers should be used. Grills, pet bowls and food compost should all be indoors.

Hudson Valley Spring Hikers: Beware Of Hibernation Emerging Bears

Those who are planning to hit the trails and camping sites as soon as the weather warms up also need to be prepared.

The DEC says that even though black bears "have a natural fear of humans" they can still become defensive if they're "surprised, approached or become emboldened by human food sources."

If you're hiking or camping, keep these tips in mind: be noisy- hike in groups, carry spray (and know how to use it) and always check conditions.

Black Bears increase their activity when it's warmer out, so if the ground is muddy and the snow is melting- bears could be nearby.

Take a look below at some more BearWise tips on being safe this time of year: