08/25/2026
🐻Be Bear Aware! 🐻 Colorado Parks and Wildlife is seeing a significant increase in bear activity this summer as bears migrate into neighborhoods and cities in search of human trash. As of Aug. 7, CPW received 5,197 reports of bear sightings and incidents, an increase from 2,853 reports in 2025 over the same time period.
Wildlife officers are frequently called to help with bears because people have left trash outside, or bears have entered open garages and unlocked cars. These calls can be prevented with extra diligence by humans to secure trash and strong-smelling items that can attract bears.
Community members can help wildlife by respecting habitat and giving animals space, which helps build community support and responsible behavior towards wildlife.
👉Give wildlife extra space and respect area closures.
👉Do not feed wildlife; let them find natural food sources.
👉Properly dispose of trash to deter wildlife from entering residential areas.
👉Keep dogs on a leash, especially near wetlands and riparian areas.
👉Report sick or stressed wildlife to a local CPW Office.
👉If you see a poaching incident, report it by emailing [email protected] or calling 1-877-COLO-OGT.
👉Volunteer for habitat improvement projects at state parks and state wildlife areas.
Visit bearwise.org for more info, tips and resources to help you stay .
📷 BearWise
