TETON VALLEY, Idaho — Residents in Teton Valley are urged to take immediate steps to secure food and garbage attractants after several black bears have gained access to unsecured trash, according to the Teton County (Idaho) Sheriff’s Office (TCSO).
According to a press release, bears have been reported “entering homes and garages, frequenting porches, pushing on doors and screens, climbing balconies, and eating out of non-bear-resistant garbage cans.”
If actions aren’t taken, TCSO shared, it’s likely that bears will continue to seek out food at residences throughout Teton Valley, which could habituate the bears to human food and trash. If that were to happen, it could create dangerous conditions for both residents and the animals.
The encounters have mostly occurred in the South Leigh Creek, Mountain Drive and Packsaddle areas. TCSO has requested that those who see bears at residences to report them quickly by calling (208) 776-8200.
TCSO shared some tips to help protect property and wildlife:
- Use a bear-resistant trash can and make sure it’s latched and stored properly.
- Do not tamper with latches, prop cans open, or overfill them. Keep all garbage secured inside a garage or building until the morning of trash pickup.
- Feed pets indoors.
- Do not store coolers, refrigerators, or freezers outside.
- Take down bird feeders from April through mid-November.
- If a bear has already visited a piece of property and found food, steps should be taken immediately. The bear will likely return a few times, but if it finds no food, it will eventually move on.
