Skip to content

Bear sightings in Hope prompt call for caution

Neighbours urged to keep ‘bear attractants’ out of reach
19306267_web1_HopeBearsStillWeb

A Hope resident is reminding his neighbours to be “bear aware” after reviewing his security video from the other night.

“The Paw Patrol was out again last night, doing door checks and inspecting our security signage,” writes Alan Remple.

He says the two bears have been very active in the Forrest Crescent area of Hope, particularly between 11 p.m. and 4:30 a.m.

“From what I see on our surveillance they follow the same route into, and out of, our property.”

Residents are reminded to eliminate anything that might attract a bear to the area, particularly garbage, bird feeders and pet food.

“Once a bear becomes used to human food sources it becomes habituated,” says Wildsafe B.C., “usually resulting in the bear being destroyed.”

Here are some Bear Aware Tips from Wildsafe B.C.:

Look for these bear attractants on your property:

Garbage - the biggest attractant for bears in our communities is garbage. Properly secure your garbage, and keep it indoors until pick-up, or until you can bring it to your local landfill.

Compost- use finished compost, leaves, grass or wood chips to cover up fruit or other food waste in your composter. Properly care for your compost by turning it and layering it appropriately to reduce odours. Click here for tips on proper composting.

Fruit trees and Grapes- make sure to harvest fruit immediately. Remove all windfall fruit. If you own an orchard, electric fencing is encouraged. Contact the RDOS or check the phone book for electric fence contractors in our area.

Pet food, Birdfeeders and Gardens are all attractants for bears. Keep your pet food securely stored indoors. Bring your birdfeeders in for the summer, supplementing them with natural flowers and birdbaths. Electric fencing is recommended to keep agriculture safe.

Barbecues - everyone loves the smell of a good barbeque, bears included! To keep your barbeques safe, make sure that they are properly cleaned, covered and don’t leave utensils out overnight.