Colorado experienced a slight increase in conflicts between humans and black bears in 2025, with unsecured trash continuing to drive the majority of encounters.
According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), the agency recorded 5,299 reports of human-bear conflicts last year — a 5.5% increase compared to 2024.
Trash was the leading cause, accounting for 57% of reported encounters. Another 18% were linked to livestock, chickens, and beehives, while 16% involved unsecured attractants such as bird seed, pet food, barbecue grills, and coolers.
Nearly half of all reported encounters resulted in property damage.
CPW officials say many of these conflicts are preventable and urge residents to take simple steps to secure trash and other attractants around their homes. Proper storage and bear-resistant containers can significantly reduce the likelihood of bears accessing human food sources and help keep both people and wildlife safe.
