Did you know Seminole County is Bear Country? Seminole County's incredible wild animals are a treasure, but encounters with bears, as well as bobcats, coyotes, and other critters, require caution.
Since food odors attract bears, keeping garbage secure is the most important way to reduce bear activity in your community. Eliminating trash as a bear attractant helps keep both bears and humans safe.
Tips for Living with Bears
In addition to securing food, garbage, and recycling, remember these tips:
- Never feed or approach bears. Intentionally feeding bears or allowing them to find anything that smells or tastes like food alters their behavior. It teaches them to approach homes and people and see us as a source of food.
- Remove or modify bird feeders. Remove or modify bird and wildlife feeders to prevent bears from reaching them. Ensure the ground is free of feed debris.
- Never leave pet food outdoors. Feed pets indoors or bring food dishes (even empty ones) inside at night. Store food indoors, as well.
- Pick up fallen fruit. Remove fallen fruit from fruit trees to avoid attracting bears to your property.
- Clean and store grills. Remove grease and food particles from grills after each use. Store clean grills and smokers in a secure area.
- Report bear activity. Report human-bear conflicts to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at 352-732-1225 or online at myfwc.com as soon as possible.
- Learn more. Request a presentation from the FWC for your HOA or community group. Email bearevents@myfwc.com for more info.