Be On the Lookout For Bears, Cougars In Mountains

By John Larson

SOCORRO - Two reports from Santa Fe this week have to do with cougars and bears in rural and mountainous areas.
Governor Richardson signed a proclamation declaring June 12 “Cougar Smart New Mexico Day,” alerting hikers, bikers and other outdoor recreationists that New Mexico is cougar country, and encouraging them to stay aware of their surroundings.
“New Mexico is cougar country,” the governor said in a press release. “As people get outdoors and enjoy the state’s wildlife and wildlands heritage, they need to stay alert to the possibility that cougars and bears share those lands. While cougar attacks are extremely rare, following a few simple steps can help people cut their risk.”
“Cougar attacks are extremely rare,” said Tod Stevenson, director of the Department of Game and Fish. “Recreationists should know that it’s a remote possibility, but it can happen and the results can be terrible”
Game and Fish is also warning hikers and campers that hotter than normal temperatures bring the possibility of encountering bears in campgrounds, picnic areas and communities near mountains.
According to a separate press release from Game and Fish, bear sightings have risen in the East Mountains near Albuquerque.
“Tuesday, May 8, Conservation Officer Mike Ahlm responded to his eleventh bear call in two days in that area,” the press release said. “He had just finished collecting a road-killed bear on Interstate 40. A week earlier, he had to kill an aggressive bear that was terrorizing a picnic area.”
"There were indications that that bear was being fed by people, and that's usually a death sentence for bears," Ahlm said. "If I find out you've been feeding bears, I will prosecute you." The fine for anyone who intentionally or unintentionally feeds a bear that becomes a nuisance is $500.
Magdalena Marshal Larry Cearley said although visitations by bears are not frequent, a occasional bear sighting in the village is not unusual.
“Bears come down, mostly looking for water. Residents must be cautious and make sure their garbage is secured in their trash bins,” Cearley said. “They’re also attracted by dog food or anything else that’s been left outside. If you see one, call us immediately.”
In 2007, a 150 pound black bear was killed when it climbed a utility pole near the Spears Well, causing a partial blackout in the village and Hop Canyon.
In 2006, the area around Quemado Lake, including all campgrounds, was closed by Gila National Forest because of an increase in bear activity.
Fish and Game offers advice on encountering a bear or cougar:
• Stop, and back away slowly while facing the bear, but avoid direct eye contact, as that may be considered a threat.
• If the bear has not seen you, stay calm and slowly move away, making noise so the bear knows you are there.
• Do not run. Make yourself appear large by holding out your jacket. If you have small children, pick them up so they don't run.
• Give the bear plenty of room to escape, so it doesn't feel threatened or trapped. If you are on a trail, step off on the downhill side and slowly move away.
• Carry a walking stick and use it to fight back in the rare event that an encounter with a cougar becomes an attack.
• If a black bear attacks you, fight back using anything at your disposal, such as rocks, sticks, binoculars or even your bare hands. Aim for the bear's nose and eyes.

Be On the Lookout For Bears, Cougars In Mountains