Learn about how to handle bear sightings or intrusions in your neighborhood.

Understanding Bear Behavior

As bears prepare for hibernation in Northern Ontario, they are actively searching for food, making it crucial for communities to understand and manage bear behavior. Unlike cartoon depictions, black bears are powerful, intelligent, and potentially dangerous animals. They live primarily in forested areas but will venture near populated areas if food sources are accessible. Bears are omnivores, feeding on plants and animals, and their diets include berries, nuts, and sometimes garbage or bird feeders when natural foods are scarce. With adult bears weighing between 100 to 600 pounds, their search for food can lead them to travel up to 100 km, increasing the likelihood of human interaction.

Reducing Bear-Human Interactions

While black bears typically avoid humans, their behavior is often influenced by human actions. Improperly managed food sources, such as garbage, bird feeders, or accessible human food, can condition bears to associate people with food, leading to increased interactions. Factors such as berry crop failures, food scarcity in the previous fall, and young, inexperienced bears contribute to the frequency of encounters. Communities must actively eliminate food attractants to prevent bears from becoming nuisances. This includes securing garbage, removing bird feeders, and avoiding feeding wildlife to ensure bears do not associate populated areas with easy meals.

Stay Safe and Report Bear Sightings

The North Bay Police Service and Ontario Provincial Police are asking the public to be aware that bears are preparing for hibernation and are looking for food sources. To protect both people and bears, residents are encouraged to follow the Bear Wise guidelines provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNR). Knowing how to prevent bears from accessing food sources can significantly reduce bear-related issues in communities. If you encounter a bear or experience bear problems, report them immediately by calling 1-866-514-BEAR (2327). For more information on staying Bear Wise, visit the MNR website and join efforts to keep Northern Ontario safe for everyone.