Six black bears have been destroyed in the Sea to Sky Region, according to the BC Conservation Officer Service.
“Six black bears in the Sea-to-Sky region, which runs from Burnaby to east of Pemberton, have been destroyed so far this year due to conflict levels and public safety concerns,” the COS says.
A black bear at Cat Lake was among the six bears killed recently. The Cat Lake site was re-opened in the first week of July, after being closed for almost a month. BC Parks cautions that this site has had numerous bear problems each year. “Be prepared to keep coolers in vehicle or food in caches on-site, do not leave food or garbage unattended for any length of time. Be respectful and keep your site clean,” says BC Parks.
Bear attractants drive a significant number of bear conflicts in the Sea-to-Sky region and across the Province. Securing attractants such as garbage, pet food and birdseed, is the single best way to help keep the public, and bears safe, COS says.
Conservation officers are working hard to minimize the risks that conflicts with wildlife pose to public safety and property, but they can’t do it alone, COS say.
“Bears that are conditioned to non-natural food sources and show a minimal fear of people are not candidates for rehabilitation or relocation – the risk to public safety is simply far too great. Be prepared to keep coolers in vehicle or food in caches on-site, do not leave food or garbage unattended for any length of time. Be respectful and keep your site clean,” says BC Parks.
The Levette Lake Recreation Site has also been closed indefinitely due to the presence of a bear in the area. This bear is actively seeking food from campers and entering tents to acquire it.
“Remember to use bear aware camping practices. Always secure your food and garbage, NEVER keep food in your tent and NEVER approach or feed wildlife.”