Bear incidents requiring response from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources have doubled this year compared to last year, according to a report published August 27. Factors including ongoing severe drought conditions have contributed to the increase in conflicts.
Black bears, the only bear species in Utah, are seeking alternate food sources because extreme weather has impacted their natural diet. Warm spring temperatures followed by hard freezes and extreme heat have impacted vegetation like berries, acorns, and roots, which comprise 90% of a black bear's diet. DWR Game Mammals Coordinator Chad Wilson stated that these conditions have led to the highest number of bears in Utah cities ever recorded. As a result, bears have migrated into lower-elevation areas and neighborhoods. As of Aug. 25, biologists and law enforcement have responded to 168 bear issues in the state this year, up from 83 responses in 2025.
While black bears typically try to avoid people, they may become aggressive if they perceive a threat to a food source. Wilson noted that bears may be euthanized if they injure a person, act aggressively, show little fear of humans, return repeatedly to populated areas, or cause significant property damage. Relocation is not always a viable solution, as bears may migrate back into populated areas, such as a bear that moved from Park City to Provo Canyon in August. Additionally, Utah lacks certified rehabilitators for bears, and zoos have limited capacity.
To prevent conflicts, residents are encouraged to secure items that attract bears, such as birdfeeders, compost piles, pet food, barbecue grills, and garbage cans. For campers, it is advised to store food and scented items like toothpaste in locked vehicles or trailers. If an encounter occurs, experts advise standing your ground rather than running or climbing a tree. If a bear attacks, individuals should fight back using any available object.
The DWR requests that residents report bears that enter campsites, get into garbage, or wander into heavily populated communities. Bears in foothills or canyons should only be reported if they are being aggressive or causing property damage.
