Maryland Officials Issued Black Bear Safety Warning
Residents in bear-prone counties should remove food sources as bears seek high-calorie meals this fall.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Wildlife
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Would you remove bird feeders or trash to help reduce bear activity in your neighborhood?
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has issued a warning regarding increased black bear activity across the state. Bears are actively foraging for food to prepare for their upcoming winter hibernation cycle.
Why it matters
During the fall, black bears require in excess of 20,000 calories per day to build the necessary fat reserves for hibernation. This surge in energy needs drives bears to travel miles from their natural habitats, increasing the likelihood of encounters near residential properties.
Black bears are particularly active in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington counties. Residents are urged to clear attractants to manage this seasonal uptick.
The players
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The state agency responsible for managing wildlife populations and issuing public safety guidance regarding interaction with native animal species.
The details
To prepare for hibernation, bears travel miles from their traditional forest homes to find easily accessible food. Residents can mitigate conflict by removing pet food and trash from their property, which eliminates the attractants that lure bears into neighborhoods.
Timeline
Fall season: Period of increased black bear sightings.
Mid-November: Window when hibernation periods begin.
Mid-December: Window when hibernation periods typically end.
The Home Front
This seasonal increase follows established trends in human-wildlife cohabitation in regions with expanding suburban footprints. The advice mirrors standard state protocols for minimizing the impact of large mammal foraging on residential property maintenance and safety.
Check your exterior property areas to ensure all trash and pet food containers are securely stored or kept indoors to avoid attracting bears. If you have questions about bear activity, contact the Maryland Department of Natural Resources at 410-260-8540 or 301-777-2136.
The takeaway
Bears prioritize high-calorie food sources as they prepare for their winter hibernation, making clean property habits essential for local residents. Secure outdoor trash cans and pet food storage to deter foraging bears from approaching your home.
Further reading
Learn more about local wildlife safety and coexistence strategies on our dedicated site section.
More information
For more tips, visit the black bear coexistence information portal.
Live Poll
Would you remove bird feeders or trash to help reduce bear activity in your neighborhood?
