There’s been a surge in reported wildlife encounters across Vancouver Island.
In the Cowichan Valley there were over 160 reports to the BC Conservation Officer Service, and over 440 in the Victoria Region since April. So far, at least 11 bears have been euthanized.
Conservation Officer Mark Kissinger says the first thing anyone should do when you encounter a bear or a cougar, is to call and report it.
Kissinger says the increase is common during this time of year, but encourages people to be wildlife smart all year round. He says an interesting fact about bears on Vancouver Island, is sometimes they don’t hibernate at all.
He says there are three key messages when it comes to wildlife encounters – always call to report any sightings, lock up your garbage, and pick any fruit trees.
