Most Utahns are accustomed to seeing deer in residential areas, but there have also recently been sightings of bears, foxes, mountain lions, coyotes, and other wildlife. In fact, due to several factors, the number of bear incidents requiring the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to respond this year has doubled from last year.

Wildlife are gravitating toward lower elevations due to recent drought – which reduces natural water sources – and wildfires – which can remove food and shelter. Young animals just leaving their mothers can become confused and make risky decisions as they wander into residential areas in search of food and shelter.

Black bears are the only species of bear in Utah, and they live and roam across much of the state. Warm weather conditions this spring, followed by several hard freezes, and then extreme heat and drought conditions have impacted plants — such as berries and acorns — and other root-like vegetation. These food sources make up 90% of a black bear's diet. As a result, bears have been seeking alternate food sources in other areas this year, which has led them to migrate into lower-elevation areas, including several neighborhoods across Utah.

Social media is more prevalent now, and a single post about wildlife can go viral, making it seem as though there are more wildlife sightings than there really are. In addition, many homes have outdoor cameras that capture videos of animals that have likely always been among us, but we just didn’t know it before technology. 


Consider these tips to help you stay safe.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings.
  • Don’t crowd or interact with wildlife. Most wildlife can injure humans in some way. It can be through diseases, such as a raccoon eating out of a dog food bowl, which can transmit diseases to your pets, or through physical contact with the animal.
  • If you encounter an animal outside, go inside if possible. If not, put something solid between you and the animal and give it a chance to move on.
  • Eliminate any potential food resources around your home, such as open garbage cans, water, or food left out.  

It's best if we keep a healthy, respectful distance from wildlife. You can’t tame a wild animal – it’s still always going to be a wild animal. But also, don't live your life being terrified of them. We can live in harmony if we give them their space. Most of the time, wildlife would rather avoid us too.

If you spot a wild animal that lingers or is distressed, contact the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) at 801-538-4700.

More bear safety tips for neighborhoods/cabins or for camping can be found from the Utah DWR.