A black bear rummaging through garbage and moving through residential properties in Saanich has prompted a warning from police.
Multiple reports have been received from concerned residents in the area of Santa Clara Avenue and Piedmont Drive, say Saanich police.
Officers are actively monitoring the situation and the BC Conservation Officer Service has been notified and is engaged.
Police are urging the public to exercise caution in the area and not approach the bear.
“While the bear has not displayed aggressive behaviour, its presence in a residential neighbourhood is concerning," said Insp. Damian Kowalewich in a news release.
If you encounter the bear, remain calm, back away slowly and contact BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277 or local police as needed.
The bear is the second wild animal to be spotted in Saanich Thursday (June 12). A student spotted a cougar near Doncaster Elementary at around 1 p.m., in the wooded area east of the Rowan Street school, near Thistle Street and Cedar Avenue.
For more information on how to stay safe and reduce human-wildlife conflict, please visit: www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/plants-animalsecosystems/wildlife/human-wildlife-conflict/report-human-wildlife-conflict.
