Vermont Wildlife Department Faces Record Bear‑Human Encounters

The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is reporting a surge in bear‑human interactions, with more than 1,200 incidents expected this year, potentially setting a new state record. The state is home to roughly 7,000 black bears, about one per 100 residents, and many incidents involve bears entering homes or vehicles—around 50 home entries and 40 vehicle entries are reported annually.

Officials say public misperception is worsening the problem. Many residents avoid reporting minor bear activity for fear the animal will be killed, creating a “catch‑22” that allows issues to escalate. “99% of the time we give advice on how to coexist with the bear,” said Joshua Morse, the department’s public information officer. The department aims to intervene early, offering guidance on securing trash and food sources to reduce attractants.

Biologists note that bears are opportunistic omnivores with an acute sense of smell and long‑term memory, allowing them to locate human food sources such as unsecured trash or birdseed and return repeatedly. The department hopes early intervention and public education will curb the trend before lethal measures become necessary.