MNRF
Local residents are being asked to exercise caution as bears come out of hibernation.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry says black bears waking up from their winter sleep are faced with a scarcity of natural food sources, leading them to look for food in garbage cans and bird feeders.
You can prevent nuisance bears from visiting your home and neighbourhood by:
-Storing garbage in waste containers with tight-fitting lids (indoors if possible)
-Waiting until the day of garbage pickup to put out garbage
-Putting away bird feeders for the spring (you can offer birds natural alternatives, such as flowers, nesting boxes and fresh water)
-Cleaning food residue and grease from outdoor barbecue grills after each use
-Keeping pet food indoors
The Ministry says bears that enter your community aren’t necessarily a threat but if the animal poses an in immediate threat by exhibiting aggressive behaviour, remain calm and call 911 or your local police detachment.
A reminder the toll-free Bear Wise reporting line is now operational 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can call 1-866-514-2327.
