Colorado reports surge in bear attacks and sightings

Colorado has experienced a surge in bear activity and human-wildlife conflicts, including four reported bear attacks in a single week between August 18 and August 22. These incidents involved a man being bitten near the Platte rivers, a woman injured inside a home in Steamboat Springs, a homeless man in Aspen, and an individual at an apartment complex.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) reports a record number of bear sightings and conflicts this year. In Eagle County alone, the Sheriff’s Office logged 290 bear calls between July and mid-August. Officials attribute the increased presence of black bears in populated areas to drought conditions, which limit natural food sources in higher elevations, and the onset of hyperphagia—a period where bears consume massive amounts of calories to prepare for winter hibernation.

Authorities advise residents to secure trash, clean grills, and lock all doors and windows to eliminate attractants. Experts note that while bears are highly adaptive, they are drawn to urban areas primarily when natural nourishment is scarce.