Bears sometimes get a bad rap.
That’s because they’re not shy about digging into your trash can or even entering your home, office or cabin if they think they can get to food. And, since a black bear, for example, can weigh over 600-plus pounds, this becomes a far bigger problem than, say, a racoon digging through your trash. However, if a “nuisance bear” becomes accustomed to eating garbage, it will likely be destroyed by animal control or moved to a different area.
So what’s a homeowner to do to keep these animals away? Start with these five tips:
Tip 1: Consider a Bear-Proof Enclosure
Even a sturdy trash can alone isn’t enough. However, a trash can enclosure made of heavy-duty materials that’s specifically designed to keep bears out should do the trick. Bears will do almost anything to get inside a space if it thinks it can get even a tiny morsel of “food” – but they won’t be able to get inside these bear boxes unless you leave it unlocked.
Tip 2: Time Your Trash Pickups
Obviously, you should try to avoid having your trash out all night or several days away from pickup. When possible, don’t take your trash out until the morning of your scheduled pickup to minimize the time it spends outside.
Tip 3: Get rid of the smell
Bears have an impressive sense of smell. Remove any smells from your garbage by rinsing the bins/cans and the enclosure with a vinegar and water solution. You can also try placing lemon-scented bags in your trash bins.
Tip 4: Don’t Leave Food Out
It may be time to re-think that bird feeder, as bears are attracted to any source of food, including bird feeders, pet food and even fruit trees. When possible, bring those items inside or remove them altogether from your property. Time to clean out that grill, too – especially the drippings.
Tip 5: Secure Your Compost
Bears also love composting because of the smell of rotting food. Make sure you secure your compost in a bear-resistant enclosure or consider composting indoors. Additionally, avoid composting meat, dairy, or oily foods – bears really love those items.
Contact BearStopper LLC today to learn more about Bear Boxes.