Public safety campaign highlights simple steps to reduce human-bear encounters
As black bears begin to emerge from hibernation across the province, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and the Ontario Provincial Police are urging residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of potentially dangerous encounters.
The seasonal advisory comes at a time when bears are actively searching for food after months of dormancy. With natural food sources still limited in early spring, bears are more likely to venture into residential areas in search of easily accessible alternatives such as household garbage, bird feed, and pet food.
Officials say proactive measures by residents can play a critical role in minimizing these encounters and protecting both communities and wildlife.
Limited food supply drives increased bear activity
Each spring, black bears emerge from hibernation in a state of heightened hunger, often travelling significant distances to find food. According to provincial officials, this behavioural pattern increases the likelihood of bears entering populated areas.
“During this time of year, there is little natural food for bears, causing them to search for other food sources, including garbage and bird feed,” the release states.
The province warns that once bears locate a reliable food source, they are likely to return repeatedly. Bears are known for their strong memory and can travel more than 100 kilometres to revisit areas where they have previously found food.
Preventative steps emphasized for residents
Authorities are encouraging Ontarians to adopt a series of straightforward preventative measures designed to reduce attractants around homes and neighbourhoods.
Key recommendations include securing garbage in tightly sealed containers and storing it indoors whenever possible. Residents are also advised to place waste outside only on designated collection days to limit exposure.
Bird feeders, commonly used during winter months, should be removed during spring and summer, as they can attract bears. Instead, officials suggest supporting bird populations through natural alternatives such as planting flowers, installing nesting boxes, or providing fresh water.
Outdoor cooking equipment is another potential attractant. The province advises residents to thoroughly clean barbecue grills and grease traps after each use to eliminate lingering food smells.
Pet owners are also urged to remain vigilant. Keeping dogs on a leash and storing pet food indoors can help prevent unintended encounters with wildlife.
Community awareness is another important component of the campaign. Residents are encouraged to notify neighbours of bear sightings and share safety practices to collectively reduce risks.
Guidance for handling bear encounters
In addition to prevention, the province is reminding residents to be prepared in the event of a bear encounter.
“Never feed or approach bears,” officials emphasize, noting that human interaction can increase the likelihood of aggressive behaviour and long-term dependency on human food sources.
The province operates a non-emergency Bear Wise reporting line, available toll-free at 1-866-514-2327. The service runs from April 1 through November 30 and is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Residents are encouraged to use this line to report sightings and receive guidance on handling non-urgent situations involving bears.
However, in cases where a bear poses an immediate threat—such as displaying aggressive or threatening behaviour—individuals are instructed to remain calm and contact emergency services by calling 911 or their local police department.
Ongoing public education efforts
The Bear Wise program remains a central component of Ontario’s wildlife management strategy, focusing on education and prevention to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Additional resources and safety information are available through the province’s official website, which outlines best practices for avoiding attractants and responding to encounters.
As bear activity increases in the coming weeks, officials stress that public cooperation is essential.
By following recommended precautions and staying informed, residents can help ensure safer communities while supporting the long-term conservation of Ontario’s black bear population.