Montgomery Parks is reminding residents that black bears may be on the move through Montgomery County as they search for suitable home ranges.
In a message shared this week, Montgomery Parks encouraged residents to take steps to reduce potential conflicts with bears by removing bird feeders, securing trash cans, keeping pet food indoors, and eliminating other potential food sources around homes.
“Montgomery Parks wants to remind citizens that Black Bears may be on the move through Montgomery County in search of a suitable home range to call their own,” the agency said.
Wildlife staff are also asking residents to report bear sightings. Anyone who sees or encounters a black bear in Montgomery County is encouraged to call 301-962-1341 or 301-962-1344.
The reminder comes as black bears across Maryland emerge from hibernation and begin searching for food. Earlier this year, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources warned that unsecured food sources such as birdseed, pet food, grills, and trash can attract bears into residential areas, increasing the likelihood of repeat visits and human-wildlife conflicts.
According to DNR, bears are especially hungry after spending months without eating or drinking and often seek out easy, high-calorie food sources. Wildlife officials caution that young bears that become accustomed to food provided by humans can develop long-term behavioral changes that increase risks for both people and bears.
Residents are encouraged to remove bird feeders between April and November, store pet food indoors, secure trash in bear-resistant containers when possible, and keep outdoor grills clean or stored away.
While black bears are most commonly found in western Maryland, including Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington counties, wildlife officials note that bears can occasionally appear in central Maryland during the spring and early summer as younger males travel in search of new territory.
Montgomery Parks emphasized that residents can help protect bears and other wildlife by avoiding practices that attract animals to neighborhoods. “Please remember to do your part to help keep bears and other wildlife wild,” the agency said.
