As the crisp autumn air settles in across Ontario, the Superior East Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is sounding the alarm about an alarming uptick in bear sightings in the region. In September alone, officers have responded to 65 bear-related calls, many of which involve sightings in residential areas of Wawa and its surroundings.

While bears are a natural part of Ontario’s diverse wildlife, the increased encounters with humans can lead to potentially dangerous situations. The OPP emphasizes that not all bear encounters are dangerous; however, public safety becomes a concern when bears exhibit aggressive or threatening behaviors.

The OPP is collaborating with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) to promote public education on how to coexist safely with these majestic creatures. To prevent unwanted encounters, the OPP is urging residents to adopt Bear Wise practices to minimize attractants in their yards.

Here are some practical tips for residents to reduce bear attractants:

1. Store garbage securely: Keep garbage indoors or in containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent bears from sniffing out a meal.

2. Timing is key: Only put out garbage on the morning of pickup day to reduce the risk of bears rummaging through trash overnight.

3. Clean up: Regularly clean garbage bins and outdoor dumpsters to eliminate lingering smells that may attract bears.

4. Bird feeders: If you have bird feeders, consider taking them down during the bear season or placing them at a height and in a location that is difficult for bears to access.

5. Pet food: Store pet food indoors and avoid leaving it outside where bears might stumble upon it.

As residents of Wawa and the surrounding areas have likely noticed, the presence of bears in urban environments is becoming more frequent. This can be attributed to various factors, including food scarcity in their natural habitats and the increasing development of residential areas encroaching on wildlife territories.

By taking these precautionary measures, residents can help reduce the chances of a bear encounter and promote a safer environment for both the community and the bears.

The OPP encourages everyone to remain vigilant and respectful of wildlife. If you encounter a bear, it is crucial to remain calm and avoid approaching the animal. Instead, make noise to alert the bear of your presence and slowly back away from the area.

As Canada moves into the fall season, it is essential to remember that we share this beautiful land with wildlife. By being Bear Wise, we can ensure that both humans and bears can coexist safely and respectfully.

Stay safe out there, Canada!