Residents in Thunder Bay, like Jeff Tiboni, are encountering an increase in black bear sightings this year. Tiboni stumbled upon a bear enjoying apples under a neighbor’s tree, prompting him to use a bear banger to deter the animal. Despite his efforts, the bear quickly returned to the apple trees after a brief pause.
Living near a large park, Tiboni noted that bear sightings are common during typical fall seasons, usually sporadic and brief. However, this year has seen a surge in bear activity, with the animals even venturing towards garbage cans once the apple supply runs out.
According to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), bears are currently in hyperphagia, consuming up to 20,000 calories daily to prepare for hibernation. Micheline Mamone, the MNR’s provincial coordinator for human-wildlife management, highlighted that bears are drawn to apple trees due to the fruit’s ripeness during late summer and fall.
Mamone explained that fluctuations in natural food sources, like berries and nuts, often lead to increased bear sightings. This year’s poor berry crop has forced bears to seek alternative food sources in residential areas, such as garbage bins and fruit trees.
To reduce bear attractants, residents are advised to promptly pick ripe fruit, secure garbage in bear-resistant containers, and feed pets indoors. Taking these precautions can help prevent bear encounters and protect both humans and wildlife. If residents spot a bear, non-emergency sightings should be reported to the Bear Wise reporting line, while emergency situations should be directed to local authorities or 911.
Efforts to manage attractants collectively within neighborhoods can significantly decrease bear interactions, ensuring the safety of both residents and wildlife. The City of Thunder Bay also provides specific fall collection periods for disposing of apples and yard waste to mitigate bear activity in the area.
