Steps can be taken to prevent trouble as bears scramble for the food they need to fatten up for hibernation, says the B.C. Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
"Bears can double their weight in a matter of weeks," BC SPCA animal welfare educator Meghann Cant said. "They need to rapidly build up their fat reserves in order to survive the winter."
For bears looking to bulk up, human foods - like those found in compost piles and garbage bins - are an attractive option.
"Human foods are rich in calories and, compared to natural foods such as berries or nuts, require less time and energy to obtain," Cant said. "As a bear, why spend hours foraging for acorns when you can simply knock over a garbage can and get all the calories you need from a few leftovers?"
The problem? Eating human foods brings bears and people closer together.
"There is potential for conflict whenever bears are drawn into urban areas by human foods," Cant said.
Over time, bears may lose their natural fear of humans, and actually come to associate people with food - with serious consequences.
"Although the risk of injury from a black bear is minimal, the fact is the risk exists," Cant said. "Hundreds of 'problem' bears are destroyed by conservation officers every year as a result." Given the danger faced by people and by black bears, human-bear conflicts deserve our very close attention.
Fortunately, conflicts can be reduced by following these tips:
- Keep garbage secured in the house, garage or shed until pick-up day;
- Pick up ripe and fallen fruit from trees and bushes daily;
- Harvest garden vegetables as they ripen;
- Clean barbecue grills after each use, and store barbecues in a secure area;
- Bring pet food dishes inside;
- Turn compost regularly, and keep compost bins covered;
- Work with neighbours to create a bear-aware neighbourhood.
The key, said Cant, is to change our own behaviour and prevent bears from gaining access to human foods in the first place.
"Then, and only then, can we learn to coexist with black bears to help make B.C. a safer place for the both of us."
