Bears live in and around Durango. When natural food is limited, they may travel closer to buildings and trash. Most bear conflicts begin when bears find human food, garbage, bird seed, pet food, or other attractants.
You can help reduce the risk of conflicts by securing food and waste and giving bears room to leave.
If you see a bear
- Stay calm.
- Do not run or climb a tree.
- Back away slowly and leave the bear a clear escape route.
- Never feed, approach, follow, crowd, or corner a bear.
- For an immediate threat, injury, or a bear inside a building, call 911.
- To report a bear sighting on campus, call Central Dispatch at 970-385-2900.
Learn more about bear safety from Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Be aware of your surroundings
- Avoid taking out trash at dusk, at night, or early in the morning, especially during periods of heightened bear activity.
- Bring someone with you when disposing of trash and make noise so bears are aware of your presence.
- Avoid noise-canceling headphones outdoors so you can stay aware of your surroundings.
Help prevent bear conflicts
- Place food and trash in secure, bear-resistant containers. Make sure lids and latches are fully closed.
- Never leave trash beside a dumpster.
- Do not photograph or record bears at close range.
- Keep easily accessible exterior doors and ground-floor windows closed and locked, especially at night.