Conflicts between bears and humans continue to rise in many areas of Colorado, including the Front Range, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, which is urging people to remove food “attractants” from their properties.

Statewide, the number of ursine sightings and conflicts with humans this year totaled 5,259 as of Dec. 1, the highest number for January through November since 5,392 in 2019. Last year, that number came in at 4,996, while in 2023, it was 2023 3,488. The seven-year average is 4,583. An estimated 17,000 to 20,000 bears make their homes in Colorado, CPW said.

“Bear-human conflicts continue to be a significant issue along the Front Range,” according to Scott Murdoch, CPW wildlife manager for an area that includes Clear Creek, Gilpin, Park counties and the west side of Jeff

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