The Ontario government and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are reminding the public to exercise caution around black bears.
With this winter’s mild weather and lack of snow, there have been reports in some parts of the province of black bears coming out of hibernation early.
As there is little natural food available for black bears as this time of the year, they will search for other food sources including garbage and bird feed.
The government is recommending taking simple precautions to help prevent attracting bears to your home and neighbourhood.
- Store your garbage in waste containers with tight-fitting lids, and keep the garbage indoors (such as a garage or shed) if possible, waiting until pickup day to put the garbage out for collection.
- Remove bird feeders for the spring and summer and offer birds natural alternatives such as flowers, nesting boxes, and fresh water.
- Clean any food residue and grease from outdoor barbecue grills, including grease traps, after each use.
- Keep pet food indoors.
- Keep your dog on a leash, because unleashed dogs can lead bears back to owners and cause defensive bear attacks on people.
VIDEO: Be Bear Wise – Hibernation
If you encounter a black bear and it is not posing an immediate threat, you can report the bear sighting by calling the Ontario government’s toll-free Bear Wise line at 1-866-514-2327. Because of the unseasonably warm weather this year, the line is open early, from March 1 to November 30 and is available 24/7.
If you encounter a black bear and it is posing an immediate threat by showing threatening or aggressive behaviour, remain calm and call 911 or your local police department.
For more information about preventing bear encounters and what to do if you do encounter one, visit ontario.ca/bearwise
