The Bear Necessities

Now the warmer weather is upon us, there’s an increased risk you may run into a bear. The Ontario Government is reminding folks that hibernation season is winding down for these guys, and to take simple precautions to not attract bears to your neighbourhood. That involves:

• Storing garbage in waste containers with tight-fitting lids
• Putting out garbage only on the morning of pickup
• Filling bird feeders, including seed, suet and nectar only during the winter when bears are hibernating
• Cleaning food residue and removing grease from outdoor barbecue grills after each use
• Keeping pet food indoors.

If you do spot a bear, call the toll free Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866-514-2327,  a number active 24/7 from the beginning of April to the end of November. If the bear is posing an immediate threat, call 911.