Spring has returned to the mountains of northern New Mexico—and so have the bears.
As the snow melts and the forests wake up, black bears are emerging from hibernation and beginning their search for food. Town officials and local organizations across northern Taos County are asking for the public’s help in keeping both bears and people safe as the animals wander closer to town.
“Spring has arrived in the mountains – and so have our local bears!” a social media post from the Red River Chamber of Commerce read. “As they wake from hibernation and begin foraging for food, it’s important that we all take steps to prevent unwanted bear encounters in town.
The message is part of an annual public awareness campaign reminding residents, business owners, and visitors to follow basic safety steps that protect wildlife and reduce the risk of dangerous run-ins. When bears find easy meals—like garbage, pet food, or scraps from human meals like a barbecue—they’re more likely to return to populated areas, creating serious problems for the animals and the community.
To keep bears wild and people safe, Visit Red River urges everyone to:
• Secure all trash: Use bear-proof trash cans and dumpsters, and never leave garbage outside overnight
• Keep porches and decks clean: Bring in pet food, coolers, and anything that smells like food
• Lock doors and windows: Bears have been known to enter homes if they smell something tempting inside
• Clean grills thoroughly: Store them inside if possible, or make sure they’re free of food residue
• Educate renters and visitors: Share these tips with anyone staying at your property to help spread awareness
Black bears are a natural and important part of the local ecosystem, but when they lose their fear of humans, they can become a danger to themselves and others. Bears that become too used to people or are reliant on human food often have to be relocated—or worse, euthanized.
“Let’s work together to make sure our furry neighbors stay wild and safe,” the post said.
Local wildlife officials will be monitoring bear activity closely throughout the spring and summer. Residents are encouraged to report unusual or aggressive bear behavior to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish or local law enforcement.
For more tips on coexisting with wildlife or to learn about bear safety in Red River, visit www.redriver.org or follow the hashtag #VisitRedRiver on social media.
