Bear activity expected to increase in RDCO

The Regional District of Central Okanagan is warning the public that bear activity is expected to increase in area parks this fall.

“With fruit ripening and salmon spawning in local creeks, this is the time of year that our field staff and visitors to Central Okanagan Regional Parks start seeing more evidence that bears are around,” said Bruce Smith, communications officer for the RDCO.

“As reports of their presence rise, we post signs in affected parks identifying that bears may be active in the area.”

Park users are advised to travel in groups and make noise when on trails so bears know people are in the area. People should keep a close eye on children and pets should be kept on a leash to avoid any potential conflicts with bears.

Smith noted that bears fishing for salmon in local creeks and streams may not hear people approaching over the noise of the water, and to give the animal plenty of space if encountered in the wild.

He also advised that people keep children and pets out of creeks and rivers to protect the salmon during spawning season.

The public is encouraged to be especially vigilant and bear aware in the fall as they can be aggressive, especially when defending their cubs or food.

Area residents can also take steps to reduce potential human-bear-wildlife conflicts by securely storing garbage, only putting the carts out on the curb the morning of pick-up, and clearing any fallen fruit from their properties.