Spring is here, which means residents could see more wildlife enter communities.
One animal to be aware of is bears, which the Conservation Officer Service (COS) said there haven’t been many sightings in towns or at the outskirts, but will rise as they seek viable food sources.
Preparations to prevent bears from coming onto properties during spring can already be taken, including removing winter bird feeders, keeping garbage out of reach of bears, and keeping pet food and dishes indoors to prevent feeding animals.
As long as bear attractants are controlled, bears will generally mind their own business.
COS said complaints have already come in this month of residents in the Cariboo feeding deer, which feeding deer within 200 meters of a residence is an offence under the Wildlife Act.
This is to prevent property destruction, and interactions between deer and people or pets, specifically dogs, as deer hooves can cause serious injury.
They said it’s best to respect wildlife as the real way to enjoy wildlife is to let them be.