DOS reminds community to be bear-smart as bears emerge from hibernation

Residents in Squamish are being reminded that bears are beginning to come out of hibernation. The District of Squamish (DOS) says its important to remember that bears can also be active year round if they become dependent on human sources of food.

Last year was a busy year for wildlife personnel in the region. According to Wildsafe BC the Conservation Officer Service received over 700 calls between April and November last year. WildSafeBC Community Coordinator, Vanessa Isnardy says “We saw a greater amount of wildlife incidents last fall that resulted in at least two human-bear conflicts”.

Residents are being asked to take down bird feeders, tidy yards and secure totes. Keep barbecues clean and free of grease, and chicken coops and beehives should be protected by an electric fence. Garbage totes should only be placed curbside and unlocked between 5 a.m. – 7 p.m. on collection day.

Squamish Mayor Patricia Heintzman says the town is bear country; “By understanding the way they live and act in their natural setting and in the built environment that is now part of their lives, we can not only coexist, but serve as an example for other communities.”

Garbage remains the largest wildlife attractant followed by fruit trees and compost according to a DOS release. Unsecured attractants are a violation of the Wildlife Attractant Bylaw. To report a violation you should call bylaw at 604-815-5067. To report a bear sighting call the Conservation Officer Service 24/7 at 1-877-952-7277.