THUNDER BAY — If you live in a more rural area, don't be surprised if you see a bear hanging around your bird feeder or garbage can in the coming weeks.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry says this winter's mild weather and lack of snow means bears could be coming out of hibernation earlier than usual.
They typically emerge from their dens around April.
According to the MNRF, there have already been reports of bear sightings in some parts of the province, and one Thunder Bay resident is said to have seen one recently.
Ontario Parks states that during hibernation, bears lose at least half their body fat.
From the time they come out of their dens until berry crops are available, they live off their stored fat and the limited energy provided by fresh spring greens.
But at this time of year, the ministry says, there's little natural food, causing them to search for other sources of nutrition such as garbage and bird feed.
It advises taking the following precautions to prevent bears from being attracted to residential properties:
- store garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids, and preferably indoors
- wait until garbage pickup day to put the containers outside
- remove bird feeders
- clean food residue and grease from outdoor barbecue grills, including grease traps, after each use
- keep pet food indoors
The MNRF and police also recommend keeping dogs leashed because unleashed pets can lead bears back to owners, and potentially cause defensive bear attacks on people.
If a bear is encountered, a report can be made through the non-emergency, toll-free Bear Wise reporting line (1-866-514-2327), which has opened earlier than normal this year.
But if a bear is posing an immediate threat by showing aggressive behaviour, you should call 911 or your local police service.
Bears can remember their last source of food, and are able to return there when hungry, sometimes travelling over 100 kilometres in the process.
More information about preventing or dealing with interactions with nuisance bears is available online.
