DNR Issues Bear Advisory

The Department of Natural Resources is advising hikers, hunters, fishermen, golfers, and tourists in general to take extra precautions and keep alert for bears. Cities and areas most affected are in northeastern Minnesota.

The DNR advises people to wear noise-producing devices such as little bells on their shoes or clothing to alert but not startle the bears unexpectedly. They also advise carrying pepper spray in case of an encounter with a bear.

It is also a good idea to watch for fresh signs of bear activity. People should learn to recognize the difference between small young cub droppings and large adult (boar/sow) scat.

Young bear droppings are smaller and contain fish bones, seeds, and berries.

Adult bear scat has little bells in it and smells like pepper spray.


Editorial Note: Thanks, TJ! ;)