Although the ground is barely bare, be bear aware

Warming temperatures and clear skies have started to thaw the valley floor. Even though snow will remain at high altitudes for a while longer, grizzly and black bears have emerged from their winter dens. These bears have spent the last few months in torpor, not hibernation- a common misconception!

Torpor, defined as a state of physical or mental inactivity, differs from hibernation in one surprising way- bears can- and do- wake up! For example, female bears will awaken from torpor to give birth to one to three cubs during the winter months.

In torpor, the metabolic and breathing rates decrease along with the core body temperature, allowing them to stay in a state of rest for up to 100 days without eating or expelling waste. As a result, bears emerge from their winter dens lethargic – like when you get woken up early from a mid-day nap. These lethargic bears are unable to expend large amounts of energy to forage for food, making bird feeders and improperly stored garbage an easy target.

Bears awakening from their winter dens gives us another reminder to secure things like bird seed, suet blocks, hay, grain and any other food sources that could be valuable to wildlife in urban areas. Providing supplemental feed, such as the ones listed above to wildlife like deer and bears, is not permitted under Montana law. It also may pose a serious safety risk to you and those living around you. Be bear aware to protect yourself and the wildlife that also call Montana home.

Looking for ways to secure your attractants, like garbage cans? Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks recommends using bear proof containers and exclosures to keep bears from accessing household waste and other common attractants.

Exclosures are enclosed structures designed to keep bears from accessing garbage cans, they can be simple and inexpensive, providing a good option for those unable to acquire bear proof cans. For residents in Seeley Lake, contact Republic Services to see if you are eligible for their bearproof container service. For those outside of Seeley Lake, or anyone looking for more information on how to secure their garbage properly, contact FWP.

Other happenings in the FWP world:

-March 1st was the start of the 2021 license year, which means that it is time to purchase new fishing and hunting licenses, and to apply for permits and special draws.

-April 1st was the deadline to apply for Deer and Elk Permit drawings.

- May 1st is the deadline to apply for moose, bison, sheep and goat permit drawings

- June 1st is the deadline to apply for antelope, elk B and deer B permit drawings

Visit fwp.mt.gov for more information.

If you are having trouble applying for permits online, you may do so in person at the FWP Regional Office in Missoula. Please follow social distancing guidelines and wear a mask. For those unable to travel, assistance may be provided over the telephone by calling (406)542-5500.