As cooler weather approaches and more people head outdoors, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources is reminding Northwest Georgia residents that fall is also an especially active feeding period for black bears.

The Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division says bears are entering hyperphagia, a period when they dramatically increase their food intake in preparation for winter. Bears can spend much of the day searching for high-calorie food, increasing the chances they will be attracted to garbage, pet food, birdseed and other easy food sources around homes and campsites.

North Georgia is home to one of Georgia’s three primary black bear populations, making the advice particularly relevant for residents and visitors in the mountain counties.

State Bear Biologist Adam Hammond says black bears naturally tend to avoid people, but problems can develop when bears learn that homes, campsites or other areas occupied by people provide an easy meal.

DNR is encouraging residents and outdoor enthusiasts to take several precautions this fall.

Garbage, food and other attractants should be kept secured. Pet food should not be left outdoors, and bird feeders can also attract bears because seeds and grains provide a high-calorie food source. Grills should be cleaned after use and stored securely when possible.

Hikers and campers are encouraged to remain alert, keep children nearby and keep dogs on a leash. Food scraps and trash should always be packed out rather than left along trails or around campsites.

Campers should also keep food, trash, toiletries and clothing worn while cooking out of their tents. DNR recommends using an approved bear-resistant container, storing those items out of sight in a locked vehicle, or suspending them at least 10 feet above the ground and 10 feet away from the tree.

If you encounter a black bear, do not approach it. If the bear has not noticed you, quietly move away. If it sees you, DNR recommends backing away slowly rather than running.

If a bear continues approaching, officials advise standing your ground, making yourself noticeable by waving your arms and yelling, and staying together if you’re with a group. Bear spray can also be used if an approaching bear creates a dangerous situation.

DNR says the goal of the BearWise program is simple: reduce conflicts between people and bears by preventing bears from learning to associate people, homes and campsites with food.

With fall hiking, camping and hunting activities increasing across Northwest Georgia, wildlife officials say a few precautions can help keep both people and Georgia’s black bears safe.