Bears Are Hunting For Calories in Your Neighborhood Before Winter Sleep

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.