The DEC is encouraging New Yorkers who live in rural areas to remove bird feeders to prevent attracting bears. Officials say because of the poor natural food availability last fall, many black bears went into their dens with low fat reserves.
They say some bears have already begun seeking out food sources around homes as they emerge from hibernation.
The DEC says people should take down bird feeders by April 1, store garbage inside secure buildings, and feed pets indoors.