The Alaska Department of Fish and Game says more bears have been coming out of hibernation earlier than usual this year, with multiple bear sightings already reported in Anchorage.
KTUU-TV reports that several bears have been seen this month in the areas of east Anchorage, the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Powerline Pass. Bears typically don’t come out of hibernation until mid-April.
A biologist with the department, Dave Battle, says bears can be driven out of hibernation early because of warmer temperatures. He says the department has received more reports of bear sightings this winter than in previous years.
He warns residents to stay away from the animals and to keep food out of the bears’ reach.
