Be BEAR AWARE! - Drake Stephens
Posted by Russell McMurchie
Drake Stephens, representing the BC Conservation Foundation, gave an interesting discussion about the problem of Black Bears in human neigbourhoods. He first reminded us that we are the ones encroaching on the Bear's traditional hunting grounds. Bears are territorial and generally a female will operste within a 10 KM X 10KM area (100 sq. KM's) Bears natural diets consist of Berries, fruit, roots, green vegitation, insects, grubs and carrion. They do not normally attach humans as a food source. Be sure to close up your garbage containers, keep them away from easy access by bears. Bears have an incredible sense of smell and can smell garbage and other potential food sources over agreat distance. Bears are very intelligent.
Over 950 bears are shot each year in BC. Relocation doesn't work. When taken from their natural habitat, Bears work their way back almost without fail. Removing all open garbage cans from our parks is a start. Coquitlam is behind the move. 45 Bears broke into houses in Whistler last year. Drake suggests we be careful during Bear season. When you call about a Bear in your neighborhooud, BC Conservation will likely not respond unless there is a threat to life. Apparently, they don't think Bears wandering around in your front yard is a threat They measure each situation carfully. Call Drake Stephens at 604-933-6317 for more information.