That’s the case for black bears who are starting to come out of hibernation now to a lack of food sources, leading them to look for food in garbage cans and bird feeders.
To prevent bear incursions, be sure to store your garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids and keep them indoors if possible – you should also keep them inside until collection day.
You can prevent bears from visiting your home and neighbourhood by:
Taking away bird feeders for the spring and summer (you can offer birds natural alternatives, such as flowers, nesting boxes and fresh water)
Cleaning food residue and grease from outdoor barbecue grills – including grease traps – after each use
Keeping pet food indoors
Bears entering our community are not always a threat, but it’s important to know who to call if you encounter one. The province operates a non-emergency, toll-free Bear Wise reporting line (1-866-514-2327). The line is open 24/7 from April 1 to November 30.
If a bear is posing an immediate threat by showing threatening or aggressive behaviour, remain calm and call 911 or your local police department.
Written by Joseph Goden
