Wednesday, September 28, 2005

Bear Sightings
Over a period of 10 ½ hours police responded to seven complaints of bear sightings in the city. Beginning at approximately 10:30 yesterday morning and until 9pm sightings were reported at Kenwood Hills / Golf Club Road, Janey Street, 1000 & 1200 block of Airport Road, 800 block of Ski Club Road and Bromley at Frost Street. Police believe in many instances the same bear had been seen repeatedly. On each occasion the animal had disappeared before police arrival.

Police are advising residents to be bear wise by following tips furnished by the Ministry of Natural Resources. Put garbage out the day of collection, do not leave pet food outdoors, clean outdoor grills after use, fill bird feeders only in the winter months, refrain from putting meat, fish or sweet food (including fruit) in your composter, pick all ripe fruit off trees and remove vegetables and fallen fruit from the ground.

The public is encouraged to visit the Ministry of Natural Resources website “bear wise” at www.bears.mnr.gov.on.ca. This site provides an educational resource for community residents, schools, campers and has many articles on bear awareness.