Hello Startouch Neighbors! A bear has been recently spotted in our neighborhood. It knocked down bird feeders and turned over trash cans while foraging for food. Additionally, a mother bear and her two cubs were also seen near Southpointe, just a couple miles from here.
Bears are natural inhabitants to our area, but their presence near our homes can pose risks to both people and pets. We urge everyone to stay alert and take extra precautions, especially when walking outdoors or letting pets outside.
It’s important that we are aware of our surroundings to avoid conflicts and interactions with our bear neighbors.
Bear Basics 🐻
- Never feed or approach bears. Intentionally feeding bears or allowing them to find anything that smells or tastes like food teaches bears to approach homes and people looking for more. Bears will defend themselves if a person gets too close, so don’t risk your safety and theirs!
- Secure food, garbage and recycling. Food and odors attract bears, so don’t reward them with easily available food, liquids or garbage.
- Remove bird feeders when bears are active. Birdseed and grains have a lot of calories, so they’re very attractive to bears. Removing feeders is the best way to avoid creating conflicts with bears.
- Don’t intentionally feed bears or other wildlife. This is dangerous and illegal.
- Don’t leave food, trash, or coolers in your yard or vehicle. Bears can smell food from miles away.
- Don’t leave scented candles, soap or suntan lotions outdoors or near open windows.
- Never leave pet food outdoors. Feed pets indoors when possible. If you must feed pets outside, feed in single portions and remove food and bowls after feeding. Store pet food where bears can’t see or smell it.
- Clean and store grills. Clean grills after each use and make sure that all of the grease, fat and food particles are removed. Store clean grills and smokers in a secure area that keeps bears out.
- Alert neighbors to bear activity. Use the HOA contact form [email address here] to contact Startouch HOA right away if you see a bear near your home.
Why it matters
Once bears associate homes with food, they lose their natural fear of humans and may become aggressive. This often results in the bear being euthanized. By keeping bears wild, we’re protecting both them and our community. If a bear becomes confrontational or shows signs of aggression, please report this immediately to Oregon State Police – Game Division.
IN EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY, DIAL 911.