One conservation officer is reminding the public that human activity influences wildlife year-round.
Sergeant Steve Ackles, an Omineca region conservation officer, attributed “90% of bear conflict,” to humans.
He added: “bears don’t wake up in the morning and decide to be a problem.”
The changing natural patterns of some animals can be attributed to human carelessness.
“In winter, in places like Prince George, there are no natural food sources available. If people make food available through garbage or other non-natural sources, bears decide that when it’s a little warm out they’re going to go and have a meal.”
Properly securing garbage bins and other food sources remains important, even throughout the winter months.
However, human-wildlife interference is not limited to attractants, as treacherous winter road conditions and poor visibility can also pose a threat to drivers and wildlife alike.
Generally, the public is encouraged to be mindful of sharing spaces with wildlife.
Anyone with wildlife conservation concerns should call the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1-877-952-7277