Cortez police report bears in neighborhoods across the city
The police department says it has had multiple reports of bears in and around residential neighborhoods, and is asking residents to secure trash, pet food, bird feeders and grills.
The following is a post from the Cortez Police Department, published by the City of Cortez on November 9, 2026.
PUBLIC SAFETY ANNOUNCEMENT: BEAR ACTIVITY IN CORTEZ
The Cortez Police Department has received multiple reports of bears in and around residential neighborhoods throughout the city.
As wildlife continues to be affected by recent environmental changes, including wildfires, flooding, drought conditions, and other disruptions to their natural habitats, residents may encounter bears and other wildlife more frequently as they search for food, water, and shelter.
If You See a Bear:
Do NOT approach the animal. Bears are wild animals and can be unpredictable, even if they appear calm.
Never feed bears or other wildlife. Feeding wildlife can make animals lose their natural fear of humans, creating dangerous situations for both residents and the animals.
Keep your distance. If you encounter a bear, remain calm, back away slowly, and give the animal plenty of space to move away on its own.
Secure attractants around your home, including:
- Trash and recycling containers
- Pet food and water bowls
- Bird feeders
- Barbecue grills
- Coolers and outdoor food storage
- Fruit that has fallen from trees
Keep children and pets indoors or under close supervision if wildlife is reported nearby.
Do not attempt to haze, chase, corner, or photograph a bear from close range.
Reporting Bear Sightings
Call 911 immediately for any emergency situation involving a bear, including if a person is threatened, injured, or if the animal is acting aggressively.
Contact the non-emergency dispatch line 970-565-8441, if you are currently observing a bear in town or in a residential area and believe public safety awareness is needed. Reports of wildlife captured on security cameras hours earlier generally do not require immediate dispatch notification unless there are other safety concerns.
By staying alert, securing food sources and other attractants, and giving wildlife the space they need, we can help keep our community safe while responsibly sharing our neighborhoods with Colorado’s wildlife.
Thank you for doing your part to help keep wildlife wild and our community safe.
The announcement is on the city’s news flash page.