In a media release, the Ministry of Natural Resources and OPP caution Ontarians to be bear aware this spring season as bears come out of hibernation
With bears coming out of hibernation in the coming weeks, the Ministry of Natural Resources and OPP are cautioning Ontarians to be bear aware this spring season.
“During this time of year, there is little natural food for bears, causing them to search for other food sources, including garbage and bird feed,” they caution in a joint media release.
They offer the following precautions:
Never feed or approach bears
Store garbage in waste containers with tight-fitting lids, preferably indoors
Wait until pickup day to put out garbage for collection
Remove bird feeders for the spring and summer (instead you can offer birds natural alternatives such as flowers, nesting boxes or fresh water)
Clean food residue from outdoor barbecue grills and grease traps after each use
Keep dogs on leash and store pet food indoors
Alert your neighbours about bear activity and share these Bear Wise tips to reduce attractants in your community
The province operates a non-emergency, toll-free Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866-514-2327. The line operates from April 1 to Nov. 30 and is available 24/7.
If a bear is posing an immediate threat by showing threatening or aggressive behaviour, the media release urges people to remain calm and call 911 or your local police department.
Bear wise material from the province is available by clicking here, and the city has set up an interactive map on which people can submit bear sights, available here.