Bears Following Campers in NH
- Bears have begun to follow campers in New Hampshire, indicating a concerning change in their behavior toward humans.
- This shift is potentially due to bears losing their fear of people as they seek food more frequently in campgrounds.
- Campers are advised to take precautions to keep food secure and minimize contact with wildlife.
LINCOLN, N.H. - The U.S. Forest Service has reported a troubling trend in New Hampshire's White Mountains, where bears are increasingly losing their fear of humans. Campers and hikers have been encountering "food-conditioned bears" that actively seek out human food, leading to frequent interactions in popular wilderness areas. The Forest Service has noted that these encounters are occurring almost daily, particularly around Lincoln, N.H., and along various trails and tent sites. The agency has identified several locations where these bear-human interactions are prevalent, including Lincoln Woods, Bondcliff, and Franconia Brook. Backpackers are advised to take precautions by storing food in bear canisters overnight to deter these habituated bears. The rise in bear activity has been particularly noticeable in the Pemigewasset wilderness, where bears are following campers and begging for food. In light of these encounters, the Forest Service has provided guidance for hikers. If approached by a food-conditioned bear, individuals are urged to stand their ground and avoid running or turning their backs. A recent video captured a bear approaching a hiker on the Osseo Trail, illustrating the need for caution but also indicating that there is no immediate cause for panic in such situations. The Forest Service emphasizes the importance of proper food storage and awareness of bear behavior to ensure safety for both humans and wildlife in the region.