Hungry Bears Waking Up From Slumber

As the spring thaw continues, more and more bears will be waking up from their winter slumber and start to scrounge for food.

With that in mind, Nicola Valley residents are once again reminded it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep the animals out of the city limits.

Merritt Conservation Officer Tyler Kerr spoke with Q101 news and reminded residents to be vigilant when it comes to your garbage bins near your property.

“We live in Merritt, so we know we are going to see bears, however it’s up to the community to help mitigate the issue by not leaving your garbage cans out overnight or just by pruning up some of your fruit trees, will help ward off the creatures.”

Kerr explained that bears can pick up a scent very easily and have great memories so if they have poached garbage or fruit from trees on your property in the past it is possible for them to return in search of food.

He also noted that it’s not just garbage cans that need to be put away when not in use.

“Bird feeders and hummingbird feeders are packed with high calorie contest and that is one of the easiest meals they will find, so we encourage people to take down the feeders,” Kerr added.  “Now that they are awake, and for the rest of the year, their focus is on putting on enough weight to get them through next winter.”

Kerr reminded residents that garbage should be put out on the morning of garbage pickup rather than overnight and added that residents who fail to comply could face fines.

Roger.White@pattisonmedia.com