The debate over backyard chickens is heating up.
Later this month, ‘Poultry for Prince George’ will be in front of council asking for changes to city bylaws to allow backyard hens.
However, Dave Bakker with the Northern Bear Awareness Society says they have concerns about adding another potential bear attractant to the mix.
“We are not really 100% sure if it’s the chickens themselves, if it’s a combination of poor housekeeping, if it’s the lack of proper storage of the feed or a combination of there about.”
He says that PG already struggles with bear encounters.
“On the average… you are looking at 800 calls per year concerning bears. Now that mainly revolves around the garbage, fruit trees, bird feeder issues.”
He says “throwing another log on the fire” could cause problems.
If ‘Poultry for Prince George’ gets their wish, Bakker says the bylaws should require feed to be secured in a separate locked up facility. He added that only electric fences will keep bears out of a chicken coop. He acknowledged recommendations from the group that will keep hens safe from foxes and coyotes, but says “a 300 pound animal with claws and teeth” is a different matter.
“We are not in it to oppose or question the motives of anyone who wants to do this. All we want to do is provide information and let an informed decision be made either for or against.” Bakker added