Home Stretch for Bears

It’s getting noticeably colder outside and black bears in this area are in a last ditch effort to ensure they have gained enough weight to survive the impending winter. They may begin their hibernation any time now, but they will continue their search for food as long as food is still available, foraging for up to 20 hours per day at this point.

Bears are normally feasting on acorns and beechnuts at this time of year, but all too often, we see signs of bears eating from the trash can and dumpster buffets we unwittingly provide for them. Birdfeeders and BBQ’s provide a tempting treat too. The easier we make it for bears to access our food and garbage, the more the bears will want to return for more, so everyone needs to do their part to eliminate or secure attractants they are responsible for.

Some tips to prevent bears from becoming a nuisance are as follows:

• Ensure red garbage dumpster doors/lids are secure at all times (even in locked compounds);
• Store food waste in freezers until collection day;
• Remove open garbage containers and replace with bear-proof bins;
• Keep outdoor common areas clean and garbage-free;
• BBQs should be cleaned regularly and stored when not in use;
• Empty grease bins (from unit kitchens) at least 4 times per year.

In Residential Housing Units:

• Place all garbage at the curb on the morning of pick-up day and not the night before;
• Freeze meat scraps in the freezer and place in compost bin the day of collection;
• Store garbage in a locked shed or garage;
• Rinse recyclable items before placing them in the recycling bin;
• Never leave pet food outside;
• Clean the grease from your BBQ regularly or keep your BBQ inside your garage/shed when not in use;
• Do not fill bird feeders between April and October

If you are experiencing a bear problem, please ensure all attractants have been eliminated.