Bears & Wildlife

Family of four black bears at the edge of a forest.

Bear-proof your home and community

Every year an average of 35 bears are destroyed in Prince George when they become used to unnatural food sources like garbage or fruit grown in gardens.

Learn how to be Bear Smart:

Download our Learn to be Bear Smart flyer [PDF]
Watch our Bear Awareness Patrol video on YouTube

Tips on how to be Bear Smart

- Set your garbage cart at the curb between 4 a.m. and 7 p.m. on collection days. Failing to follow this bylaw regulation will result in a $300 fine.
- Lock your garbage cart in an enclosed structure like a garage or shed where possible.
- Secure your garbage cart with a locking mechanism such as a flat hook cam strap.
- Make noises and speak loudly when walking or biking to alert bears in the area.
- Travel in a group whenever possible.
- Use officially marked trails and only hike or bike during daylight hours.
- Keep pets on leashes at all times, even in off-leash areas as bears can become aggressive if they mistake unleashed dogs for predators.
- Maintain a safe distance, especially if it is a mother bear and her cubs.
- Stop, remain calm, and do not face away, scream, or run.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Report an aggressive bear or injured animal to the Conservation Officer Service through the 24-hour hotline at 1-877-952-RAPP (7277).
- Avoid growing fruit-bearing trees or plants on your property and remove any ripe fruit and vegetables.
- Clean outdoor barbecues and grease traps regularly.
- Feed pets indoors and remove bird feeders during the spring to autumn months.
- Rinse out all recycling materials.