With recent grizzly sightings in the area and both black and grizzly bears actively preparing for hibernation, it’s especially important to stay “bear aware” this fall. Bears are now in peak foraging mode, consuming large amounts of food to build fat reserves for winter. Here’s how to help keep our community safe and support these wildlife neighbors:
Harvest Quickly: Ripe or fallen fruit is highly attractive to both black and grizzly bears. Harvest any remaining fruit on your property to reduce potential bear visits.
Secure All Food Sources: Store garbage in bear-resistant containers, or keep it indoors until collection day. Remove any outdoor food sources like pet food, bird seed, Halloween pumpkins, or food in vehicles—bears have an excellent sense of smell and can easily detect food from far away.
Clean Backyard Areas: After using barbecues or cooking outdoors, thoroughly clean the area. Residual food scents can attract bears of any species to your yard, especially as they prepare for hibernation.
Give Bears Plenty of Space: If you encounter a bear—whether black or grizzly—maintain a safe distance and allow it to move on. Never approach, follow, or feed any bear, as this can lead to dangerous situations for both humans and bears.
Make Noise on Trails: To prevent surprising a bear on trails, make noise to alert them of your presence. Carry bear spray and know how to use it as a precaution in case of a close encounter.
If You Encounter a Grizzly Bear: If you see a grizzly bear during the day, please contact Coast to Cascades at 1-250-344-0115. After daytime hour sightings can be reported to BC Conservation at 1-800-663-9453.
Report Unsafe Bear Activity: If you observe unusual or unsafe bear activity, report it to the R.A.P.P. line at 1-877-952-7277. Timely reports help wildlife officials manage bear behavior and reduce conflicts in our community.
By following these steps, you’re not only ensuring your safety but also supporting our local black and grizzly bears in their natural behaviors as they prepare for hibernation. For more information, visit http://www.bearsmart.com .