Bears Spotted In South Reno Neighborhoods
Homeowners should secure all food attractants as bears forage to build fat reserves for the winter months.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Wildlife
Live Poll
Do you prioritize securing food sources to prevent bear encounters in your local community?
Recent bear sightings in South Reno are prompting wildlife officials to remind residents to secure food sources. The activity occurs as bears actively search for calories in residential neighborhoods.
Why it matters
Bears are currently undergoing hyperphagia, a biological state where they must consume up to 20,000 calories daily to build fat reserves for winter, driving them closer to human homes.
Wildlife officials have received reports regarding bear activity near Curti Ranch and the intersection of Veterans Parkway and Rio Wrangler. Residents should monitor their properties for attractants to minimize human-wildlife encounters.
The players
Nevada Department of Wildlife
The state agency responsible for managing wildlife populations and providing public guidance on living safely alongside bears.
The details
During hyperphagia, bears are driven by an intense biological need to consume high-calorie foods to survive the winter months. In residential areas, they often seek out easy access to food, such as unsecured garbage cans, pet food left outdoors, or grease on backyard grills. Securing these items is the primary way homeowners can discourage bears from wandering into yards and onto porches.
Timeline
October 25, 2026, at 10 p.m.
The Home Front
This seasonal rise in activity follows the predictable hyperphagia cycle, which forces wildlife into developed areas in search of high-energy nutrients. Managing household attractants is a standard practice in regions near bear habitat to prevent recurring property visits.
Residents should secure all garbage containers and remove potential food sources like pet bowls or bird feeders from their yards. You can report bear sightings directly to the Nevada Department of Wildlife at (775) 688-2327.
The takeaway
Understanding that bears are driven by an intense need for calories can help you better secure your home during this high-activity season. Keep a record of the Nevada Department of Wildlife hotline number, (775) 688-2327, in your contacts to report any sightings.
Further reading
For more tips on deterring wildlife from your property, visit the Wildlife section of our site.
More information
Review safety guidelines on the NDOW Living with Bears information webpage.
Live Poll
Do you prioritize securing food sources to prevent bear encounters in your local community?
