Photo supplied by the Province of Ontario
A mild winter and lack of snow could mean an unwanted guest waking up earlier than expected.
Both the provincial government and local police say to be careful as reports of black bears coming out of hibernation early are popping up in some parts of Ontario.
There isn’t much natural food for bears at this time of year, so they could end up in your neighbourhood looking for garbage, bird feed, or other sources of food.
The province says there are simple precautions can help to prevent to attract bears to your backyard, including:
- Storing garbage in waste containers with tight-fitting lids (indoors if possible)
- Waiting until pickup day to put out garbage
- 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
Additionally, it is important to always leash your dog because unleashed dogs can lead bears back to owners and cause defensive bear attacks on people.
While not every instance of bears entering your community is a threat, but knowing who to call is important during a bear encounter is important.
With the warmer spring, the province’s non-emergency, toll-free Bear Wise reporting line (1-866-514-2327) has reopened early, accepting calls 24/7 from now until the end of November.
If a bear is posing an immediate threat by showing threatening or aggressive behaviour, remain calm and call 911 or your local police department.
You can find more information on the cause of and proper measures to prevent bear encounters on the Province of Ontario’s Bear Wise website.
(written by Kasey Egan)