(C) Fio Cattaneo 2008

Black Bear Facts

• Can run up to 35 mph

• 80% diet is plant  based

• Can smell bird seed  from 1 mile away

• May not den if food/ garbage is available in winter

• Population estimate 25,000 in Washington

Links

Bear Smart

WA Dept of Fish & Wild

Bear Info

News Links

Bears in the News

Books

Living with Bears by Linda Masterson

Great American Bear by Jeff Fair

Safe Travel in Bear Country by Gary Brown 

Video/DVD 

Staying Safe in Bear Country

Living in Bear Country

Black Bear (Ursus americanus)

Black bears are commonly seen in many neighborhoods of Issaquah Highlands from March until November (bear activity maps). They are lured into our backyards because they smell garbage that people leave outside (bear and garbage). Bears live to eat, consuming up to 25,000 calories a day. They are naturally curious, extremely intelligent, with a sense of smell that is seven times better than a bloodhound.

Our actions directly impact a bear's life. For the safety of everyone in Issaquah Highlands and the bears, please follow the tips below and kindly remind your neighbors. If you see garbage tipped over and eaten, please print the attached flyer (bear smart) and give it to your neighbor. We need to work together to keep the bears and our neighborhoods safe.

Tips to Keep Bears in the Woods and not in Our Yards

• Keep garbage in the house, garage or sturdy shed until pick-up day.

• Do not add any smelly waste to your Recycle or Yard waste bin until pick-up day.

• Feed birds only during the winter months (December-March).

• Keep barbecues clean and store in a garage or shed.

• Feed pets indoors and store pet food indoors.

• Pick ripe fruit from trees and remove fallen fruit daily.

If You See a Bear

• Remain calm and do not run.

• Never approach a bear. Back away slowly without turning your back.

• Keep away from the bear and bring children and pets indoors.

• Warn other’s of the bear’s presence, without yelling.

• If the bear seems threatening call the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife Office         (425) 775-1311.

If You Come in Close Contact with a Bear

http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/living/bears.htm#attacks

What to Teach Your Children about Bears

Children's Safety and Bears

Issaquah Highlands Connections Article about Black Bears

Black Bear (Sept 2009)

Black Bear (April 2009)