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More Bears Coming Down The Mountain: 'Shortage Of Food'

ARVADA, Colo. (CBS4)- Wildlife officials say people living in the foothills may be seeing more bears as they try to bulk up for hibernation. The wild animal sightings have increased in recent weeks and it's only the beginning.

"This is the Arvada Police Department. We want to make you aware of two bears spotted in your area," was the recording left on an Arvada resident's voice mail Friday morning, one of dozens in the area warning the neighborhood.

Bears Spotted MAP
(credit: CBS)

The bears were spotted near 59th and Eldridge and near near 64th and Indiana early Friday morning.

There are similar cases reported along the Front Range including Highlands Ranch and Littleton.

arvada bear from bruce greiner
A bear spotted in Arvada (credit: Bruce Greiner)

Bears are typically more active this time of year while they're trying to pack on the pounds before winter.

Another sighting occurred Sunday morning in Wheat Ridge, where a bear cub was seen just north of Interstate 70 near Marshall Street.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife said there is a reason we're seeing more neighborhood visits this year.

Bear Cub Captured 1 (from Wheat Ridge PD)
(credit: Wheat Ridge Police Department)

"We are seeing a shortage of food for the bears and so we definitely think that this is playing a part in why we are seeing so much activity," said Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokeswoman Jennifer Churchill.

Churchill said right now it's just a guess but there are two things contributing to the shortage of food, "It may be related to the wet rains in May but it also may be because of that deep freeze that happened back in November."

For those who live in bear territory, Churchill said keep your distance.

"Try and use motion lights, air horns get some noise makers, maybe get a hose ready," said Churchill. "Prepare in advance."

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