New Hampshire officials are urging residents to secure food sources as black bears emerge from winter dens and begin foraging statewide.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department advises removing bird feeders by April 1, or earlier in areas where bears are already active. Residents should also secure garbage, store grills and pet food indoors, and protect poultry and livestock with electric fencing.
Officials say bird feeders, poultry, and unsecured garbage account for the majority of human–bear conflicts. Addressing these attractants could reduce conflicts by more than 80%, Bailey said.
Residents can call 1-888-749-2327 for bear-related assistance.