Why don't bears go through some areas?

From my experience in baiting bears I notice that low-ground areas with old-growth hardwoods and some water access is ideal and they generally avoid dry areas on high-ground where you'd find pines.

But I've baited plenty of areas where it doesn't look like a bad area at all, some of them were even within 3km of a bait that was getting hit by multiple bears. But no bears go near it?! What is it that makes them so selective about the areas they go through that food wont even entice them? Like there's some invisible barrier they absolutely wont pass.

I’ve never noticed too much of difference in area. Bring the food and they will come. Timing is another issue all together. If the area is too open they probably won’t go to close until early morning or late evening. I have noticed that some baits don’t attract bears, they might even be repelled. Once we used a pile of bagels covered in molasses and they avoided it. Just my experience.

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Originally Posted by Birdbuff

I’ve never noticed too much of difference in area. Bring the food and they will come. Timing is another issue all together. If the area is too open they probably won’t go to close until early morning or late evening. I have noticed that some baits don’t attract bears, they might even be repelled. Once we used a pile of bagels covered in molasses and they avoided it. Just my experience.

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Usually I use donuts/muffins and pour syrup and some vanilla extract over it

Thicker the better and close to a low swampy area with some standing water. High, dry and not as thick gives them less cover and no water to cool off and/or drink on those hot days.

Same as any wild animal. Food, water, cover. Best combo wins and all 3 are important. Can also add access to mates in the appropriate season.

The ability to circle can also affect things depending on how wary a particular bear is. If the terrain prevents the bear from being able to circle before approaching it may decide it's not worth the risk.