Bears across Georgia are prowling neighborhoods right now, drawn by the smell of grilled meat, bird feeders, and ripe backyard fruit as they pack on pounds before hibernation.
🐻 Why It Matters: A fed bear becomes a problem bear — and what you leave outside could turn a wild animal into a regular visitor at your home.
🏡 What They’re After: The Georgia Department of Natural Resources says bears are targeting high-calorie food sources in residential areas as fall approaches.
The agency warns homeowners to remove temptations: dirty grills that smell like hot dogs, bird feeders full of seed, pet food bowls left outside, unsecured trash cans, and fruit trees ready for harvest.
🔍 Between the Lines: Bears have sensitive noses and can detect food from long distances. Once they find an easy meal at your house, they’ll come back.
The state recommends bear-proof trash bins or storing garbage inside until pickup morning. Pet feeding should happen indoors, and grills need cleaning immediately after use.
📋 The Sources: Georgia Department of Natural Resources.