This past July, 80 black bears were destroyed by the B.C. Conservation Officer Service.
The same time last year, only 23 were killed.
Wildlife Conflict Manager Mike Badry says part of the issue is that the bears’ natural food supply was impacted by the cold, wet spring this year being followed by hot and dry conditions, which generally spoils the supply.
That has them looking for food wherever they can, even in areas where there are homes, meaning they’re more likely to go through people’s garbage.
Badry says they’re trying to move away from translocating the bears, which is rarely positive.
Badry says garbage, pet food, and bird feeders are what commonly attract bears.
He’s recommending residents clean their barbecues and keep an eye on fruit trees.
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