The Conservation Officer Service (COS) has received reports of a Black Bear sow and three cubs climbing to reach second floor decks to access hummingbird feeders and BBQs in the Cheakamus area.
“It is crucial attractants are managed correctly on all levels of properties, as bears are very agile climbers with a great sense of smell. Garbage must not be stored on decks, bird and hummingbird feeders must not be accessible and BBQs, including grease traps, must be properly cleaned,” RMOW said.
Bear sightings can be reported to the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277. Residents are also asked to report unsecured animal attractants to Bylaw Services at 604-935-8280 or by email at bylawservices@whistler.ca.
RMOW also reminds the community that Whistler’s bears are waking up and they are hungry, which means it’s time for a spring clean of any attractants from around our homes and cars. Common attractants include garbage, bird feeders, compost and pet food. Even recycling, paint cans, citronella and sunscreen have strong smells that can attract bears.
In February, RMOW issued a wildlife alert after a black bear walked towards trail users in the Lost Lake park area. The group was out with their medium-sized, leashed dog on the White Gold Traverse during an afternoon walk when the incident happened. The bear was not deterred by the dog or yelling, and walked head down within a couple of metres of the people, circling behind them.