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Penticton  

Bears like pumpkins

The community coordinator for RDOS WildSafe BC is reminding the public this is the time of year when bears are foraging to add fat reserves prior to denning.

In the fall they are known to frequent neighbourhoods close to wildlife corridors, fish bearing creeks and residential areas close to the edges of populated areas, according to Zoe Kirk.

"Residents living in those areas are reminded to keep garbage and attractants secure until the day of garbage pick-up," said Kirk. "And that includes pumpkins and Jack-o-lanterns following Halloween."

For a bear, a street filled with pumpkins left out on porches, patios and at curb side are un-natural smorgasbords, which may draw them to the area. Once they are rewarded with a good source of easy meals, they are likely to return again and again.

Also, if pumpkins, squashes and other garden plants are left unattended to begin rotting, they lure rats, racoons and other rodents to the area.

"These can be even peskier to deal with than the occasional bruin, and can be a factor in coyote and cougar sightings in residential areas as they look for easy rodent meals," explained Kirk.

For more information on Keeping Wildlife Wild and Communities Safe, visit www.wildsafebc.com or www.rdos.bc.ca and click on WildSafeBC - Bear Aware tab section.



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