Black Bears Live Near You - I spotted a bear



I've spotted a black bear on my property. What do I do?

  1. Check the table to see if you have items on your property that could be attracting bears. Take the action listed in the table to remove or secure these items.
  2. Talk to your neighbours about working together to eliminate bear attractants.
  3. Call your local Department of Natural Resources and Renewables office.
    After hours call 1-800-565-2224.

Removing the food source is almost always the solution. Relocating bears is sometimes done but it does not always solve the problem because bears often return to where they were captured. Also, relocation may negatively affect the bear's wellbeing.

When a bear becomes dependent on people for food, it can become a safety risk for people and property. In rare cases, department staff may need to euthanize a bear for safety reasons. Help keep bears healthy and wild by making sure no human food is available to them.

Bear Facts what attracts bears