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Grizzly and black bears emerging from hibernation

By SCOTT McMILLION, Chronicle Staff Writer

Spring is just around the corner and that means grizzly and black bears are emerging from their long winter sleep.


 Some bears already have been spotted in Yellowstone National Park, searching for carcasses or wildlife weakened by the winter, the National Park Service announced this week.

Reports of active bears are trickling in to the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, as well.

"Odds are, they could be out and about," FWP bear management specialist Kevin Frey said.

Older males usually emerge from their den first, Frey said, followed by other lone bears and then by nursing mothers.

Hungry bears are "always hoping for a carcass" to eat, Frey said, but also will eat anything turning green.

Inside Yellowstone, some parts of the backcountry have been closed in an effort to keep hungry bears and people away from each other for a few weeks.

People recreating in bear country should pay attention to their surroundings and do what they can to avoid encounters, taking special care around any carcasses they might find.

Hikers and campers should also be careful with food, making sure it isn't available to bears.

Anyone carrying pepper spray should make sure the canister is in good condition and the person carrying it knows how to use it properly.

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