LIVING IN BEAR HABITAT
Because our homes are near historical bear habitat and open space, there is a possibility that we will encounter bears. Most conflicts between people and bears can be traced to human food, garbage, pet food, bird seed or other attractants. When people, intentionally or unintentionally , leave food out for bears to find, a bear’s natural drive to eat can overcome its wariness of humans. Bears that get too comfortable around people can destroy property or even become a threat to human safety. Habituated bears often must be killed.
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In Colorado, there are about 8,000 to 12,000 black bears. Bears can weigh between 125 and 275 pounds. Just prior to winter, they can add on an additional 100 pounds. In the wild, bears live to be about 20 years old. "Home range" for males is generally 180 to 200 square miles, for females, generally 10 to 75 miles.
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In the wild, bears' diets are about 90% vegetation -- grasses, leaves, nuts, and berries. While a small part of the remaining 10% is meat like deer, elk, and rabbits, most of their protein comes from insects such as ants, beetles, and larvae.
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Bears are opportunistic feeders with good memories - they will feed the way they were taught by their mother when they were cubs. If the mother was accustomed to meals from trash cans, the cubs will learn and become another generation of "trash feeders".
Source: CPW
LIVING WITH MOUNTAIN LIONS
​Mountain lions are also known as cougars, panthers, and pumas. They are a crucial part of the Colorado's ecosystem. We have a projected statewide population size (not including kittens) of around 3,800-4,400. Lions have different home range sizes, from 10 to 370 square miles. Lions generally are most abundant in areas with lots of deer. ​
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ENCOUNTER A LION
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Walk or hike in groups, making noise to avoid surprising a lion.
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Carry a sturdy walking stick and keep children close.
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Never approach a feeding mountain lion or one with kittens.
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Give them an escape route.
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Speak calmly, move slowly, and avoid running.
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Raise your arms, open your jacket, and pick up small children or pets to make yourself appear larger.
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If the lion behaves aggressively, throw objects, wave your arms, and speak firmly.
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If the lion does not leave the area, face the lion and slowly back away.
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Fight back if attacked. People have fought back successfully with rocks, sticks, caps or jackets, garden tools and their bare hands.
Source: CPW