Trash-Seeking Bears Spotted In Golden

GOLDEN, CO -- Golden residents love their wildlife, but when it comes to bears, keeping them out of Golden's trash is a matter of safety, for people and the bears themselves.

"Don't feed the bears!" the city urges. "Last week, one or more bears were spotted in Golden. We need your help to ensure both their welfare and that of our residents. Bring in bird feeders and secure your trash cans," a message from the city said.

"We live in Bear Country even though it is a quiet suburb of Denver," said Golden Special Enforcement Unit Supervisor, Officer Jamie Segal in a press release. "Our officers drive the streets an average of eight hours every day and we see the majority of homes in our downtown neighborhoods are not securing their trash cans. ... Please put your trash inside."

Bears who show up in residential neighborhoods must be "hazed and made to feel unwelcome for their own good," said Colorado Parks and Wildlife District Wildlife Manager, Jerrie McKee. Bears who become "too comfortable" must be tranquilized and moved, "which never goes well," McKee said. "Upon the next infraction, that bear would have to be killed."

"We have a much better success of saving bears if the community decides to help us, by living responsibly, and helping us change the bear's behavior," said McKee.

Don't approach bears and please don't try to take a selfie, the city urges.

Leave the area and call non-emergency dispatch at 303-384-8045 to report the sighting.

Image via City of Golden