Bears: Learning to bear them

The shooting of two bear cubs in Colorado this week raises two questions: what are your rights when a bear is on your property, and should metal trash containers be required?

The Colorado Springs Police Department and Colorado Parks and Wildlife said Wednesday that you can legally shoot a bear if it threatens you, your property, your pets or your livestock.

If none of those conditions apply, you could be charged with illegally discharging a firearm.

“You can’t shoot a bear just because you’re mad about it being in your trash,” Lt. Catherine Buckley of the CSPD said.

Regarding metal trash receptacles considered “bear-proof,” Boulder requires homeowners to use them. Manitou Springs is in the early stages of discussing whether to require them in the upcoming renewal of its contract with a trash hauler.

A citizen-led effort called “Bear Safe” is considering the matter.

“I think (metal receptacles) would be helpful,” said Police Chief Joe Ribeiro. “But there are other considerations.”

Mayor Marc Snyder emphasized that the discussion is only preliminary.

“I wouldn’t say we’re actively pursuing it,” he said.

The cost of the receptacles — around $100 or more — could be a drawback in requiring them.

Debra Faricy, a local homeowner, said the cost makes the receptacles impractical for many people.

“Most people west of (Interstate 25) should already know,” Faricy said. “You keep your trash inside until the morning of trash day. People should know they’re going to have wildlife. Give the bears their space. Don’t fear that they’re looking to hurt us.”

Faricy said bears ignored her trash and stripped her peach tree of fruit this week.

According to experts, you should secure trash and any potential food that a bear can smell. CPW has helpful information on how to keep bears off your property.