Michigan is home to 12,400 black bears. Don’t let your house become part of their den.

It’s nearly hibernation season in Michigan and the state’s 12,400 black bears are looking for cozy spaces to bed − make sure your home doesn’t become part of their den.

As temperatures drop and snow flurries fly in the Upper Peninsula, the estimated 10,300 bears are likely already sniffing around for a place to bed.

Typically bears den in hollow trees, caves and dense thickets. But BearWise , a partner of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, notes that human spaces can be quite cozy for bears.

BearWise warns that crawl spaces, sheds, garages and empty vacation homes can be entered by black bears if not properly secured.

Space underneath a deck can be ideal for an adult bear as well. Bears are looking for dark, snug spots that come with at least one built-in wall.

Bears don’