# Black bear human-wildlife conflict during hyperphagia > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/black-bear-human-wildlife-conflict-during-hyperphagia > Updated: 2026-10-26T12:00:53.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. Black bear activity is increasing near human settlements across several regions in North America due to hyperphagia, a seasonal period where bears consume massive amounts of calories to prepare for winter hibernation. In early October, reports emerged from Coahuila, Mexico, and North Carolina, USA. In Coahuila, bears have been observed attempting to access food through cabin windows. In North Carolina, wildlife authorities issued alerts noting that bird feeders, pet food, and unsecured trash are attracting bears to residential areas in counties such as Buncombe, Haywood, and Henderson. By late October, similar patterns were reported in Oregon and Michigan. In Western Oregon, a shortage of mountain berries has driven bears toward human food sources earlier than expected. In Michigan, increased sightings have been noted in Marquette, Gogebic, and Iron counties as bears forage for acorns and berries. In both states, wildlife experts are advising residents to use bear-resistant containers and secure all food sources to prevent bears from associating humans with easy meals. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-26: Black bear activity increases in Oregon and Michigan during fall feeding season Black bears in Oregon and Michigan are entering hyperphagia, an intense feeding period before winter, leading to increased sightings and potential conflicts with humans near food sources. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/black-bear-activity-increases-in-oregon-and-michigan-during-fall-feeding-season ### 2026-10-08: Black bear encounters rise in Coahuila and North Carolina Black bears are appearing near human habitats in Coahuila, Mexico, and North Carolina, USA, driven by seasonal hunger and easy access to food sources like trash and bird feeders. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/black-bear-encounters-rise-in-coahuila-and-north-carolina --- Cite as: Black bear human-wildlife conflict during hyperphagia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/black-bear-human-wildlife-conflict-during-hyperphagia