By Times Chronicle Staff
The RDOS is alerting residents from Oliver north to nearly Vaseux Lake that bears are active in the region. The message was sent out via the Voyent Alert network on Monday, May 12 at 4 p.m.
“Bears have recently become active in your area and are looking for easy food sources,” the alert reads. “Placing garbage or recycling at the curb too early, or storing it unsecured, can attract bears and increase the risk of conflict.”
Map of notification area sent out via the Voyent Alert network pertaining to active bears in the region.
It also went on to note that bird feeders are a “high value” food source for bears and should be taken down for the summer. Birdbaths are a good alternative for those wishing to bird watch, it highlights.
As such the RDOS is requesting that residents only put their garbage out on the day of collection, remove bird feeders and assess your property for other potential bear attractants. This can include food crops, landscaping that produces fruit or nuts, pet food, livestock, barbeque, and compost.
“Residents and visitors are reminded to use extra caution while in the region.” It also urged the reporting of any bears that are aggressive, or sighted in urban areas. These should be reported to the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277. For more information visit wildsafebc.com . The Voyent Alert smartphone app can be downloaded from either the Apple or Android Store free of charge.
