As reports of bear sightings increase, RCMP out with a warning

There have been a number of social media videos showing bears in urban areas around Metro Vancouver in recent weeks, and the Surrey RCMP is out with some advice on how to react should you encounter one.

“Don’t feed them, and remain calm, and don’t run. Don’t climb trees … don’t scream or startle them,” said Corp. James Mason.

“And if you do come in contact with one … slowly back away.”

He also says it’s good to stay in groups and keep aware of your surroundings and make sure to give the bear a clear way to get away.

“You don’t want to put a wild animal or bear specifically in a position where it might feel trapped, because if you are in its escape route, it likely will end up coming towards you,” Mason said.

Garth Mowat, a large carnivore expert with the Province of B.C., says their data doesn’t indicate that there are more bears in urban areas, but rather more people sharing bear sightings online.

He says the number of bears in urban areas is generally determined by the amount of available food — including food waste.

Fortunately, Mowat says cities, regional districts, and municipalities have generally improved their waste management practices since the 1990s.

“The dumps are secured, they are fenced, they are not allowing bears to access large amounts of garbage.”

However, Mowat says smaller sources of food, such as backyard garden, water, and trash, can still attract bears.

He also points out the fact that bear populations are recovering after nearly being eradicated in some areas, which he calls a win for conservation efforts.

Mason says that anyone who encounters bears in urban areas should call the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.