Minnesota bears emerging from hibernation

Minnesota's bears are emerging from hibernation, but wildlife managers say there's no need for alarm - just preparation.

The Department of Natural Resources says bear sightings are most common in northern Minnesota, but bears can also be spotted in some cities farther south.

DNR bear researcher Karen Noyce says spring can be tough for bears. With berries and vegetation scarce, she says, bears may be tempted by dog food, livestock feed, birdseed, compost or garbage.

Jeff Lightfoot, the DNR's northeastern regional wildlife manager, says removing food that attracts bears resolves problems much more effectively than attempting to trap and destroy bears.

Never approach bears, and always leave them an escape route. A treed bear should be left alone as well. It will leave once the area is quiet.

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