Wildlife
Aspen is centered in prime bear habitat, and therefore, the Aspen Police Department frequently is summoned to situations involving bears. Bears are wild animals and are unpredictable. While they prefer to avoid human contact, many bears have become used to spending some of their time in Aspen. Habituated bears will enter urban areas in search of human food sources. So, it is common for bears to venture into the middle of downtown Aspen during both day and night.
This is also becoming increasingly true for other wildlife such as moose, mountain lions, elk, and deer.
Wildlife is a key component of Aspen’s environment, and it is up to us to take the appropriate precautions to keep them safe. Removing in-town attractants is the most effective way to reduce bear activity in town. To better secure attractants, the Aspen Police Department is working with cooperating agencies and businesses on education, prevention, and enforcement.
There are many things that humans can do to reduce interactions with bears and other wildlife.