Thursday, March 28, 2024

Out of town visitor has encounter with bear in Saanich

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An out of town visitor had an unexpected meeting with a black bear in Saanich Saturday evening. 

The hiker was on a trail near Prospect Lake at around 6 p.m. when he called police seeking help. 

Officers flooded the area until they determined the hiker was in the area of Hector Road. They hiked up a hill to where the man was and brought him back down despite the bear still being in the area. 

The encounter took place in a green belt within rural Saanich, an area known to have a variety of wildlife, including bears.

Although this individual was startled by the bear and took action to get away, police said the bear did not act aggressive.

“This media release is to advise the community of the encounter and to remind everyone this time of year bears will be active, especially in areas where fresh fruit and berries are readily available,” the release read. 

Bears are omnivorous animals with vegetation making up about 80% of their diet. They have an extremely good sense of smell and can detect food from over a kilometer away.

As such, be bear aware – stay calm if you do see a bear. Carry noise makers and the bear will likely avoid you. 

Additionally, protect your property by keeping animal foods indoors, and pick fruit, veggies and berries as they ripen, and any fallen fruit from the ground before they can attract bears into the area. 

Keep garbage and compost unavailable or less appealing to any wildlife who may develop interest.

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Victoria Buzz Staffhttps://www.victoriabuzz.com
Your inside source for Greater Victoria happenings. Established in 2012.

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