An “alarming” surge in the number of bears accessing garbage in Sooke has prompted local wildlife group, Wild Wise, to issue a stern reminder to residents to be more mindful with their trash.
“There have been at least six incidents in Sooke in less than a week,” said Wild Wise volunteer Mollie Cameron, on Nov. 12.
But it’s not just Sooke residents who are under fire for their lack of bear awareness; incidents have also been recorded in Langford, Colwood and Metchosin, says Cameron.
According to Cameron, the organization has received multiple anonymous tip-offs regarding human-bear conflicts, and has seen an increase in reports on social media. Members of Wild Wise have also seen the problem with their own eyes while out canvassing to raise awareness.
“So many residents are still storing garbage outside and making it accessible to bears, it’s quite disappointing,” she said.
“Many areas are also dumping pumpkins along roadways, despite two community events organized for responsible disposal.”
The organization has reminded the community it is against the Wildlife Act of British Columbia, as well as Sooke bylaws, to provide attractants to dangerous wildlife, with hefty fines for those found in violation.
Unsecured and improperly stored garbage is an irresistible attraction to bears, which can have “long-term and severe consequences”, said Wild Wise in its original statement online.
“A fed bear is a dead bear,” continues the statement. “This common saying reflects the sad truth about habituated and food-conditioned bears. Bears that become reliant on human food sources often must be euthanized.”
“Once a bear has become food-conditioned, it is nearly impossible to reverse its behaviour.”
Keeping trash and food waste in bear-proof containers and storing attractants in a garage or shed, are just some of the ways residents can help to reduce the risk of human-bear conflicts, says Wild Wise.
“In many cases, all it takes is one house on the block leaving garbage unsecured to draw bears into the neighbourhood,” they said. “By educating neighbours and raising awareness, we can work together to reduce human-bear conflicts.”
“We must remember that the responsibility to protect wildlife lies with us.”
For more information about the work of Wild Wise and how to manage attractants, visit the website: www.wildwisesociety.org/predator.
