This is a very busy time of year for bears in South Florida.
Mating season runs from June to early August, so local bears just happen to be looking for love.
And although bears are usually rarely seen in Southeast Florida, a little preparation never hurt nobody!
David Telesco of the Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission says mama bears with new cubs are also on the move, and looking for food.
As bears are known to go scavenging with their big, strong, curious and usually hungry demeanor, Telesco suggests bear-proofing your garbage can, as the animal can smell and detect the scent of trash from up to 10 miles away!
- Put garbage out shortly before pickup time
- Store garbage in a bear-resistant trash container or storage area
- Double-bag to reduce odors that can attract bears
- Place bags inside the container
- Regularly clean and deodorize cans with bleach
For more tips and tricks for living among bears in South Florida, click here.