Colorado Wildlife Agency Alerts Public to Bears Consuming Porch Pumpkins This Fall
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is warning residents that bears in Colorado are eating porch pumpkins this fall.
Denver, CO, October 3, 2026 —
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has issued a public alert regarding a seasonal behavior observed in the state’s bear population: the consumption of porch pumpkins. As autumn progresses and residents decorate their homes with seasonal gourds, CPW is reminding the public that these decorative items can attract bears, leading to potential conflicts.
Bears, driven by their natural foraging instincts and preparation for winter hibernation, are known to investigate and consume readily available food sources. Porch pumpkins, often placed near homes, can be an enticing target for these animals. The agency emphasizes that even decorative pumpkins, especially those that have begun to spoil, can become an attractive food source.
This advisory serves as a preventative measure to help residents coexist safely with wildlife. CPW encourages homeowners to be aware of their surroundings and to take simple steps to reduce attractants. While specific recommendations beyond removing the pumpkins were not detailed in the advisory, the general guidance points towards securing potential food sources that might draw bears closer to residential areas.
The agency’s warning underscores the importance of understanding animal behavior, particularly during seasons when food availability can shift. By being mindful of items like porch pumpkins, residents can play a role in minimizing unwanted wildlife encounters and ensuring the safety of both people and bears. Further information on bear safety and attractant management is typically available through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife official channels.
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