LANSING, MI-- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says taking bird feeders down is a good way to reduce conflicts with bears.
The DNR says bird seed is especially attractive to bears because of its high fat content and easy accessibility. Once a bird feeder is discovered, bears will keep coming back until the food is gone or the feeder removed.
DNR field operations manager Brian Mastenbrook says bears that are fed often lose their fear of humans and can become a safety threat. They may even have to be euthanized.
Residents can avoid conflict by removing their bird feeders during the spring and summer months.
