An B次元官网网址渁larmingB次元官网网址� surge in the number of bears accessing garbage in Sooke has prompted local wildlife group, Wild Wise, to issue a stern reminder to residents to be more mindful with their trash.

B次元官网网址淭here have been at least six incidents in Sooke in less than a week,B次元官网网址� said Wild Wise volunteer Mollie Cameron, on Nov. 12. 

But itB次元官网网址檚 not just Sooke residents who are under fire for their lack of bear awareness; incidents have also been recorded in Langford, Colwood and Metchosin, says Cameron.

According to Cameron, the organization has received multiple anonymous tip-offs regarding human-bear conflicts, and has seen an increase in reports on social media. Members of Wild Wise have also seen the problem with their own eyes while out canvassing to raise awareness.

B次元官网网址淪o many residents are still storing garbage outside and making it accessible to bears, itB次元官网网址檚 quite disappointing,B次元官网网址� she said.

B次元官网网址淢any areas are also dumping pumpkins along roadways, despite two community events organized for responsible disposal.B次元官网网址�

The organization has reminded the community it is against the Wildlife Act of British Columbia, as well as Sooke bylaws, to provide attractants to dangerous wildlife, with hefty fines for those found in violation.

Unsecured and improperly stored garbage is an irresistible attraction to bears, which can have B次元官网网址渓ong-term and severe consequencesB次元官网网址�, said Wild Wise in its original statement online.

B次元官网网址淎 fed bear is a dead bear,B次元官网网址� continues the statement. B次元官网网址淭his common saying reflects the sad truth about habituated and food-conditioned bears. Bears that become reliant on human food sources often must be euthanized.B次元官网网址�

B次元官网网址淥nce a bear has become food-conditioned, it is nearly impossible to reverse its behaviour.B次元官网网址�

Keeping trash and food waste in bear-proof containers and storing attractants in a garage or shed, are just some of the ways residents can help to reduce the risk of human-bear conflicts, says Wild Wise.

B次元官网网址淚n many cases, all it takes is one house on the block leaving garbage unsecured to draw bears into the neighbourhood,B次元官网网址� they said. B次元官网网址淏y educating neighbours and raising awareness, we can work together to reduce human-bear conflicts.B次元官网网址�

B次元官网网址淲e must remember that the responsibility to protect wildlife lies with us.B次元官网网址�

For more information about the work of Wild Wise and how to manage attractants, visit the website: .