Fort Payne to Fine or Jail Residents Who Intentionally Feed Bears

The Weekly Ledger
2 days ago
2 min read

*A family of black bears strolls through a yard. Photo courtesy of Shawn Slome*

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Area News

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Black bear sightings have become increasingly common in Fort Payne neighborhoods — and city officials say some residents are making the situation worse by intentionally leaving food out to draw the animals closer.

In response, the Fort Payne City Council voted Tuesday night to approve a new ordinance that prohibits residents from purposefully feeding bears. Violations could result in fines of up to $500 and even six months in jail.

Mayor Brian Baine said the measure comes after multiple reports of homeowners deliberately enticing the protected animals with scraps and unsecured trash.

“They’re here to stay,” Baine said. “What we have to do is learn how to cohabitate with the bears because once they find food, then they stay. They’re going to come back constantly.”

City leaders warn that a fed bear is a dangerous bear — for both people and the bear itself. Bears that grow comfortable around humans often become bolder and may be euthanized if they pose a threat.

The city is urging residents to take common-sense precautions:

Keep trash cans secured or stored inside garages
Do not leave pet food outdoors
Remove any food sources that could attract wildlife

Black bears are a protected species in Alabama, and state law prohibits harming or harassing them. Officials say that feeding bears, even unintentionally, can lead to confrontations that endanger neighborhoods and force wildlife officers to take action against the animals.

Mayor Baine said the goal of the new code is simple:

“We want to protect our residents and protect the bears. Feeding them only puts everyone at risk.”