Increase in bear encounters prompts North Van RCMP warning

People around North Vancouver are being urged to be ‘bear smart,’ after the RCMP reported an increase in sightings.

According to Mounties, there were four separate bear sightings reported in the area Tuesday night. While the RCMP points out this is not uncommon on the North Shore, it says there has been “an increase in these reports in recent weeks.”

“There is always a concern for the safety of the resident, their pets and the public at large when bears are confronted,” said Const. Mansoor Sahak

“The RCMP is taking the opportunity to once again remind residents that they play a significant role in determining how bears will interact with humans.”

In many of the recent reports, police say bears were seen going into driveways and ripping garbage and compost bins open as the animals looked for food.

In one case, the RCMP says a man came within five feet of a bear.

Locals are being reminded to store garbage and other attractants properly, to minimize contact with wildlife.

Residents should:

• Keep garbage inside until collection morning
• Consider bear-resistant containers
• Store pet food indoors
• Remove bird feeders during bear season
• Keep barbecues clean
• Clear fruit from trees and bushes

According to experts, you should remain calm if you see a bear. The RCMP says these animals are “often … just passing through.”

“If it finds no food source,” the bear “will simply move on,” police continue.

You’re reminded to always keep your distance, bring your children and pets inside, and give bears plenty of space to escape if you see one.

It is illegal to feed bears and other wildlife in B.C.

Last week, the BC Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) said a black bear had to be put down after the animal bit a woman who was gardening in Deep Cove.

“Thankfully, the woman was not seriously injured,” the BCCOS said on July 18.

While unfortunate, Christine Miller, co-executive director of the North Shore Black Bear Society, tells CityNews the decision to put this bear down was necessary.

“We actually support the unfortunate outcome because, like people, sometimes bears or any wildlife can make a mistake. And when it involves potential safety issues in the community, sometimes they have to be killed for the safety of the people,” she explained.

Any threatening encounters should be reported to the BCCOS at 1-877-952-7277 or the RCMP at 911.