It may be a little earlier than normal, but it's time to think about bears emerging from hibernation. The reason is because of Minnesota's unnaturally warm winter. The period from December-February is the warmest on record since data has been kept in Minnesota.
It's kind of location dependent says the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' Andrew Tri who works in the Forest Wildlife and Populations Research Unit.
"Based on some of the sightings that are being reported from north suburbs and a little farther north," says Tri. "Certainly there are bears coming out of hibernation earlier than we would normally expect.
And these sightings are occurring around the north edge of the Twin Cities. So should you be concerned about these bears?
"Bears aren't inherently a danger critter, but they are big animals and they deserve to be respected and given their space," Tri says. "You know, you don't want to get too close to a bear. You don't want to approach a bear."
And to prevent attracting bears, Tri says to never leave food outside.
"99 times out of 100, the reason a bear is in the yard is because it smelled something or is exploring, looking for food," says Tri.
Tri says there are six essential tips to prevent attracting bears into your space:
Never feed or approach bears
Secure food, garbage and recycling
Remove the bird feeders when the bears are active
Don't feed your pets outside
Clean your grills and your smokers after you're done
If you happen to see a bear in the area, let your neighbors know so they clean up those attractants as well