City of Maple Ridge is reminding residents to be bear aware as the animals come out of hibernation.
The spring campaign is called “What Kind of Spring Bear Are You?” and it is inviting residents to connect with bear safety by choosing a spring bear that resonates with them.
Each bear shares a practical tip to educate residents on bear behaviour and suggest actions residents can take to reduce attractants and help keep wildlife safe.
As the weather begins to warm up, bears and other wildlife will be actively searching for food and are often drawn into residential neighbourhoods by easily accessible attractants such as garbage, compost, bird feeders, pet food, and fallen fruit. The city noted that managing these attractants is the most effective way to reduce the risk of human-animal interactions.
“Spring is when bears and other wildlife start to get active and it’s important we do our part to keep them out of neighbourhoods,” said Michelle Adams, the city’s director of bylaw, licensing and community safety.
“This new campaign is all about making bear and wildlife safety relatable and easy to act on to keep our community safe.”
To help keep bears, wildlife, and residents safe, the City is recommending:
• store garbage in wildlife-resistant containers or a secure building, to place garbage carts out no earlier than 5 a.m. on collection day, and remove them by 7 p.m.;
• remove bird feeders until winter;
• use bear-proof composters and avoid adding meat, fish, or cooked food scraps to compost;
• freeze smelly garbage until collection day;
• clean barbecues after each use to remove food residue and grease;
• do not leave pet food outside and feed pets indoors;
• use fencing to protect beehives, chicken coops, and other small livestock;
• and pick ripened fruit from trees and vines immediately.
If you encounter a bear: do not run and stay calm; back away slowly while speaking in a calm voice; and give the animal plenty of space to leave the area.
Keep pets leashed and close to you, especially during early morning or evening hours.
The City works in partnership with the Conservation Officer Service and WildSafeBC to educate residents on bear safety and enforce wildlife attractant regulations.
City Bylaw Services staff assist in raising awareness about how to minimize risks and prevent conflicts between humans and bears.
Residents are advised to report wildlife-human interactions where public safety may be at risk to the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP).
The City’s Wildlife and Vector Control Bylaw aims to reduce human-wildlife interactions and ensure wildlife protection and public safety. Those found contravening this bylaw can be issued daily fines ranging from $100 to $500.
For more information on bear safety and to access additional resources, go to: MapleRidge.ca/Bears or contact the Bylaw, Licensing & Community Safety team at: 604 467 7305, or: bylaws@mapleridge.ca.