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BC  

Bear with them, use sense

Bears have been seen ambling through neighbourhoods in West Kelowna and Vernon this week. Eight were shot in Revelstoke last week after getting into garbage or fruit trees, with some threatening members of the public.

The Ministry of the Environment is asking the public to take some responsibility to ensure the animals don't have to be destroyed as they search for available food sources in an effort to fatten up before the winter months.

In urban areas, residents are asked to:

  • Use bear-proof waste containers or keep garbage secured in the house, garage or shed until pickup day, and return the containers to the secure site once they are emptied.
  • Pick ripe and fallen fruit daily and remove any unused fruit trees.
  • Use bird feeders only in winter. Keep the ground free of seeds and nuts.
  • Clean the barbecue grill after each use, and store it in a secure area.
  • Bring pet food dishes inside and store the pet food inside.
  • Do not add meat products or uncooked food to compost. Turn it regularly and keep it covered.
  • Use electric fencing to protect attractants such as small livestock, backyard chickens, beehives, compost bins and fruit trees.
  • If residents spot a bear, they are advised to remain calm, keep away from the bear and bring children and pets indoors, if possible.

Hikers are asked to ensure someone knows their plans, carry bear spray and keep it accessible and keep dogs on a leash.

Residents, hikers and campers are reminded it is illegal to feed or attract bears or other wildlife. Penalties can be as high as $100,000 in fines and one year in prison.

The government is also urging communities to become Bear Smart.

Places like Kamloops and Whistler, that are now Bear Smart communities, have seen significant declines in bear conflict calls and the number of bears destroyed, according to a press release.

More information about reporting poachers and polluters can be found online.



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