Bear are back

Bears emerge from hibernation, be responsible for your trash

Apr 12, 2022 | 3:34 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – By chance, some residents have spotted their first black bear sighting of 2022, and this can indicate the end of hibernation season.

Conservation Officer Service would like to remind residents to remove bear attractants, as they don’t want a repeat of last year when close to 49 bears were killed because they were considered a threat to public safety.

The warming temperatures and rapidly melting snow is when residents start to see sighting wondering black bears in neighbourhoods. Last year the CO Service received several bear complaints.

When bears first emerge from hibernation, they will immediately try to fatten up on an easy meal. CO service is asking the public to secure food attractants as bears are known to chase after the easy food source.

The City says residents should work together to make their neighbourhood safe from bears.

Four years ago, the City introduced 300 bear-resistant garbage carts to a neighbourhood in the Hart.

Garbage carts are only allowed at the roadside in front of residences from 4 am until 7 pm on respective garbage days.

Any resident who fails to secure bear attractant can face a fine under the wildlife act.