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Committee considers whether to restrict bird feeders after FWP guidance on attractants
Summary
Members discussed bird feeders as an attractant for bears and other wildlife; staff said FWP would welcome a local ordinance or mitigation requirements, and the committee proposed outreach to other mountain communities and inviting a bird/wildlife specialist before any regulatory action.
Participants and staff discussed bird feeders as a significant attractant for bears, rodents and other wildlife. One speaker relayed FWP feedback that an ordinance limiting feeders or requiring mitigations such as electric fences would be welcome: “FWP would love it if the city would pass an ordinance and say you can't have bird feeders without some appropriate mitigation,” the staff member said.
Speakers acknowledged the political sensitivity — many residents value feeders — and suggested outreach and expert input before drafting regulation. Committee members recommended contacting other mountain towns (for example, West Yellowstone and Whitefish) to learn how they manage feeders and requested that staff arrange a specialist presentation to the committee before proposing an ordinance.
