Help Avoid Bear Encounters

After hibernating all winter, bears will soon be looking for food, and Nova Scotians are being asked to make sure they are not sending the message that residential communities are a good place for bears to feed.

"More than 450 nuisance bear situations were reported last year. Sightings decreased compared to the previous year and with continued co-operation, we can further reduce the number of problem bear situations," said Department of Natural Resources Minister David Morse. "Bears have the potential to be dangerous and destructive. We must all help in the prevention of bear encounters."

Department staff investigate problem bear situations and consistently find that food odours attract bears to the area. Storing garbage inside or in metal bear-proof containers, and keeping your barbecue grill clean and grease-free are just some of the things that can prevent bear encounters at your home or cottage.

While there is an abundance of natural foods, bears will search far and wide, following food odours into backyards. Bears are attracted to garbage, compost, green bins, pet food and bird feeders. There are specific precautions home and cottage owners, campers and hikers should take to reduce the likelihood of attracting bears. To find out how to prevent bear incidents and what to do when seeing a black bear, visit the Natural Resource's website at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/Nuisance/bears.htm .

Bear sightings in residential communities and near homes should be reported to the Department of Natural Resources. Trained staff will determine the appropriate action. During business hours, call a local Natural Resources office. After hours, on weekends and holidays, call toll free 1-800-565-2224.