Colorado bear encounters surge amid drought conditions

Colorado is experiencing increased bear sightings driven by drought-related food scarcity, prompting wildlife authorities to implement new enforcement measures. A new state law classifies intentionally luring bears with food or trash as a misdemeanor with enhanced penalties.

This is a long-running storyline that has developed over 7 days. The homepage highlights its most recent activity, so the outlet count there reflects the latest wave. The totals above cover the full run.