DNR says don't feed awaken bears

• Yearling Black Bear

Yearling Black Bear

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Don’t feed the bears. That’s what the state DNR is telling Wisconsinites, as black bears wake up from their winter of hibernation.

Officials say the bears will scrounge around garbage cans, grills, and bird-feeders to look for food – and it’s illegal for people to feed them. The DNR urges people to take down their bird feeders, even during the day – and to rinse empty food cans to reduce odors before tossing them in the garbage. Officials say trash cans should be kept in closed buildings, and pet food should be kept indoors.

If you see a bear near your house, the DNR says you can scare it away by making noise and waving your arms. And if you meet a bear in the woods, experts say you should slowly back away.

Tags: outdoors