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By Veronica Beltran

beware of the bear amidst pandemic

Province says we should be bear-y aware this spring due to the pandemic

Apr 17, 2020 | 2:20 PM

VICTORIA—What comes with spring?

Bears.

In a release by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy they say that staying at home due to COVID-19 and with some waste and recycling services being impacted as a result of the pandemic, it’s more important than ever to be vigilant about keeping bear attractants at bay.

“If bears do not have access to non-natural food sources, such as garbage, fruit and bird seed within communities, they have no reason to hang around. This results in increased safety for both people and bears,” said Mike Badry, provincial wildlife conflict manager, BC Conservation Officer Service.

“Residents could turn this unusual time into something positive for wildlife by taking extra time to secure attractants and educate themselves about Bear Smart practices.”— Mike Badry, provincial wildlife conflict manager, BC Conservation Officer Service

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According to the government, eight communities in the province are already setting a strong example of actions that should be taken during these times.

Kamloops, Squamish, Lions Bay, Whistler, Port Alberni, Naramata, New Denver and Coquitlam have had their official Bear Smart status for several years through the Bear Smart Community Program.

The program is a voluntary, preventative conservation measure that encourages communities, businesses and individuals to work together to reduce conflicts with bears. Several more are actively pursuing the designation.

Last year, the Conservation Officer Service received more than 20,000 calls related to conflicts with bears. Many of the calls pertained to unsecured attractants.