Saanich police are warning citizens to be “bear aware” and keep dogs under control, indoors or on leashes, following reports of a bear north of Prospect Lake.
Several reports came in sporadically on Wednesday of a bear in the area of West Saanich and Sparton Roads. The first report came in Tuesday, at about 4:30 p.m., of a bear spotted in the backyard of a home on Matterhorn Drive. The bear ran away after shouts from homeowners.
One report stated the bear was eating garbage, prompting another warning from B.C. Conservation Officer Service.
To keep bears away, the best thing to do is decrease attractions such as garbage. Bins should be locked up and kept inaccessible, the service said.
Also, fruit trees and berry bushes should be picked clean. Compost should be covered with earth.
Future sightings of the bear can be reported to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277. If the situation is more urgent, police should be alerted.
