The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) is alerting poultry
owners and related groups about the need to protect their birds and coops
from hungry bears. Black bears killing chickens and damaging chicken coops
is becoming one of the most frequently reported human-bear conflicts in
the state. Common in central and western Massachusetts, black bears are
expanding their range east to Route 495. Poultry loss, coop damage, and
other bear conflicts have been reported in all of these regions and calls
have increased lately as bears fatten up before winter hibernation. Many
poultry owners have no idea their birds and coops could be at risk.
MassWildlife has important information to share with poultry keepers of
all kinds—from backyard bird owners to owners of larger scale operations.
Bear tips and resources for poultry owners:
At this time of year, bears are going into overdrive to find food and
fatten up before going into winter hibernation. Coops and chicken wire
don’t provide the needed protection from the strength and power of a black
bear. MassWildlife has received a number of calls from people who have
lost birds and sustained coop damage. Unfortunately, bears that habitually
raid chicken coops cannot be relocated and often end up being killed.
Properly maintained electric fencing is the most effective way to protect
chickens and other poultry from bears.
MassWildlife has published an Electric Fencing Guide
(https://masshomelessanimalfund.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0b9fbf567c333b2614884e6a&id=f42023d618&e=ccad5baefd)
for purposes of assisting poultry owners, beekeepers, and other livestock
owners.
A two-page flyer "Protect Your Chickens from Bears"
(https://masshomelessanimalfund.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0b9fbf567c333b2614884e6a&id=53d972baad&e=ccad5baefd)
with tips on electric fencing and other prevention methods is available
for view and download.
For all bear information, visit mass.gov/bears
(https://masshomelessanimalfund.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0b9fbf567c333b2614884e6a&id=514048adcd&e=ccad5baefd)
.
** Rosa **
Rosa Fratangelo
Town of Warwick Animal Control Officer
Town of Warwick Inspector of Animals
