Warm fall could be a factor in late bear sightings

This fall has seen unseasonably warm weather, with temperatures only consistently dropping below freezing in recent days.

There have also been more reports of bear sightings near homes and in Downtown Talkeetna than usual for this time of year. Those two factors are likely linked.

Tim Peltier, area biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, says the onset of cold weather means bears will soon look to bed down for the winter.

Peltier says a number of factors are in play in a bear’s decision to start hibernating. He says this year saw warm temperatures and a good berry crop, meaning bears could fatten up longer than usual.

The Northern Susitna Valley has not seen snow yet, and Tim Peltier says that while storms can be a signal to bears to begin hibernating, that temperature plays a larger role.

As for precautions, Peltier advises that Northern Valley residents continue to responsibly dispose of things like household trash. He also advises holding off on putting out bird feeders. They can attract bears, and Peltier says the birds will be fine on their own for a while longer.