Bear awareness urged to prevent human-wildlife conflict

As bears prepare for winter hibernation, they require approximately 20,000 calories daily, increasing the risk of human-wildlife conflict. This year, summer wildfires may exacerbate the issue by destroying natural habitats and reducing essential food sources such as berries, nuts, and fish.

To prevent bears from becoming habituated to human communities, residents are advised to manage high-calorie attractants. Recommended precautions include clearing windfall fruit from trees, securing pet food indoors at night, and cleaning barbecue grease traps. Anyone spotting a bear in a community is encouraged to report it to the Conservation Officer Service.