With spring right around the corner, Maine officials are advising residents to be aware and take action regarding this common outdoor decoration.

Listen, we get it—nobody likes being told what to do. But this isn’t that; it’s just a friendly recommendation from the experts, and hey, don’t blame the messenger—we’re pretty sure there’s an expression about that!

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
loading...

So, given that, which common yard decorations are Maine residents being warned against displaying this year?

According to The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, it’s best to remove and store bird feeders, along with any spilled seed, between April 1st and November 1st to avoid attracting bears.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
loading...

Bears are drawn to birdseed and other food sources, so taking feeders down during the warmer months can help prevent property damage and unwanted encounters.

Again, according to The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, it’s important to store feeders and spilled seed indoors to ensure bears aren’t lured into your yard.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
loading...
WWMJ Ellsworth Maine logo
Get our free mobile app

Additional bear-proofing steps include securing garbage, storing grills and pet food inside, and keeping outdoor areas free of food scraps.

While some have raised concerns about avian flu, experts say there is no reason to stop feeding birds unless you also raise domestic poultry.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
loading...

Well, there you have it—because of bears in our neck of the woods, Mainers are being advised not to have bird feeders in their backyards this year.

What are your thoughts on these recommendations? We’d love to hear from you! Join the conversation by messaging us on the app.

Read More: Are You Aware of the 'Sunrise and Sunset' Law in Maine?

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
loading...

10 Tips To Keep Maine Black Bears Out Of Your Yard

Now that Spring is here, the bears are back...and they are hungry!

Gallery Credit: Arlen Jameson

36 Banned Items Maine and New Hampshire Goodwill Stores Will Not Accept As Donation

36 Banned Items Maine and New Hampshire Goodwill Stores Will Not Accept As Donation

Gallery Credit: Sarah Sullivan

2025 Concerts in Maine, New Hampshire, & Massachusetts

These are some of the most anticipated tours coming to New England in 2025

2025 Maine Agricultural Fair & Festival Dates

According to the Untamed Mainer website, these are the proposed dates for some of Maine's biggest fairs and festivals. If there is an event that we missed that you believe should be on our list, or if we got something wrong, please let us know by sending an email to Cooper.Fox@townsquaremedia.com

Mainers Advised to NOT Travel to These 9 Places

The United States Department of State regularly issues travel advisories for Americans to help keep them safe during their vacations. There are four levels of advisories: exercise normal precautions, exercise increased caution, reconsider travel and do not travel. These are nine of the 19 destinations under a Level 4: DO NOT TRAVEL advisory.

More From WWMJ Ellsworth Maine