Public Asked to Help Reduce Nuisance Bear Encounters

Bears have awoken from their winter hibernation and need to be discouraged from searching for food in residential areas.

While the number of nuisance bear sightings recorded by the Department of Natural Resources was down slightly last year to 383 from 419 in 2008, the public must remain vigilant in an effort to further reduce the amount of bear encounters in Nova Scotia.

"It is gratifying to see the numbers come down, however we need to keep our guard up," said Natural Resources Minister John MacDonell. "We are asking people to take the necessary steps to keep bears away from our neighbourhoods."

Department staff investigate problem bear situations and have determined that food odours attract bears. Bears are attracted to garbage, compost, green bins, pet food and bird feeders. In order to curb residential bear encounters garbage should be stored inside or in metal bear-proof containers, and barbecue grills should be kept clean and grease-free.

Residents in western Halifax Regional Municipality, New Glasgow, Truro and Windsor annually report the most nuisance bear sightings in the province so this year the department is launching a targeted awareness campaign in these areas when bear sightings begin. Natural Resources officials will be placing cardboard door hangers at homes in these communities, advising residents on how to keep bears away and what to do when a bear is spotted on your property.

To learn more about 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.asp.

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.