There have been numerous black bear sightings in Nanaimo over the last few days. Most recently, a bear was spotted on the trail at Buttertubs Marsh on Tuesday afternoon and at Bowen Park on Monday.
Richard Harding from the City’s Parks, Recreation and Culture department says it’s not uncommon at this time of the year and they’ve put up a sign in Bowen Park.
Harding says they’re reminding people to be careful and keep their distance.
Conservation Officer Troy Sterling says they have checked out all of the sightings and none of the bears shown any aggressive, threatening or predatory behaviour. He says people should take some simple precautions to avoid conflicts with bears.
Sterling says if you spot a bear while you’re walking on a trail, don’t make any sudden movements and resist the urge to snap photos.
Sterling says any bear sightings should be reported to Conservation Officers by calling 1-877-952-7277. As for cougar sightings, one was spotted on Hammond Bay Rd in Nanaimo on Monday.
