Ontario Black Bears Are Coming Out of Hibernation Early

Because of the mild winter, Ontario Black bears are waking up early…

Wildlife experts are warning residents who live in or near bear country, to be extra careful with food as the signs of early spring fill the air.

“With this winter’s mild weather and lack of snow, there have been reports of black bears coming out of hibernation early in some parts of the province,” the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry said.

Between December and March in an average year, Ontario records roughly 12 sightings of black bears. The province said it has already received 18 sightings during the same time this year.

7 Facts about Black Bears

• Black Bears are masters of adaptation. ...
• Black Bears have few predators. ...
• Black Bears are about the size of humans. ...
• Bears are solitary animals. ...
• Bears give birth before emerging from hibernation. ...
• Bears lose half their body fat while hibernating. ...
• Bears rarely turn down a snack.