Bear conflicts down in Jackson Hole area
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department says this year is a below-average one for human-bear conflicts in the Jackson Hole area in the northwest part of the state.
In an average year, Game and Fish responds to between 60 and 80 bear conflicts. This year is a bit lower, with between 50 and 60 reported so far. A few weeks remain before bears retreat to their dens for the winter.
The Jackson Hole News & Guide reports that in dry years lacking an abundant berry crop, reports of bear conflicts tend to increase as was the case in 2012 when there were some 200 conflicts that Game and Fish responded to.
Game and Fish say education is the most important tool in preventing conflicts between bears and humans.
