While black bear season has been tamer compared to last year the provincial government is still advising caution when out in bear country.

 

Wildlife biologist Janine Wilmot explains........

 

“There’s a lot of things to think about when you’re active in bear country. You probably want to make sure you’re letting somebody know about where you’re going, your travel route and your intended time to return.  You want to make sure that you’re always aware of your surroundings so that means not having your phone or ear buds in to listen to music.  You want to be able to hear what’s going on around you.  You want to watch for signs there could be bears active in the area so that might be things like tracks on the ground, maybe fresh droppings.  Another good idea is to carry deterrent spray with you as well as some noise making devices, maybe a walking stick, air horn or whistle.”

 

Wilmot adds it’s important for people going into bear country with a pet that they’re kept on a leash so they don’t provoke a bear into an aggressive response should they encounter one.

 

For more on bear safety, visit the Government of Manitoba website.