NEWS RELEASE

June 29, 2023

PHOENIX —  Many people will be headed to Arizona’s high country this weekend, and the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is reminding outdoor recreationists and residents to be aware of the chance encounter with  bears or  other native wildlife.

The best way to enjoy wildlife is from a safe distance. Bears, in particular, are powerful animals that should always be considered unpredictable and potentially dangerous. A Tucson man was killed by a black bear June 16 in the Groom Creek area south of Prescott. 

Black bears (the only bear species in Arizona) will usually detect you and leave the area before you notice, unless the bear has been conditioned to people and their food. If you live or recreate in bear country, take responsibility for not attracting them. Always work with your fellow campers or residential neighbors to make unavailable food sources and garbage that might attract a bear.

Living and recreating in bear habitat comes with responsibility.  Here are some tips to avoid conflicts with bears:

Keep them away from your home

Camping

Hiking

In case of a bear encounter

Bear sightings in areas with human activity should be reported to AZGFD’s 24/7 dispatch center at 623-236-7201. In an emergency, call 911. For additional information, click here or visit the Living with Wildlife page at https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife-conservation/living-with-wildlife/.

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