June 16, 2016 · 0 Comments
Caledon OPP are advising residents to be on their guard after two reported, but unconfirmed, sitings of black bears in Caledon.
Constable Tamara Schubert said the first siting was not reported directly to police, but the information was relayed by the Town of Caledon. The siting was June 6 in the area of Caledon/King Townline and Columbia Way, near Bolton.
The other was reported by the Ministry of Natural Resources on June 8 in the area of Kennedy Road and Highpoint Sideroad, southeast of Orangeville.
Police say black bears typically avoid humans. They reside throughout the majority of Ontario, mainly in forested locations where it is most desirable for food, refuge and den sites. A black bear might attack if it feels threatened or is a predatory bear.
Although these sightings are unconfirmed, police are advising people to exercise significant caution if they happen to spot or come across a black bear. In such an event, they are urged to call police.
For emergency encounters, call 9-1-1. An emergency encounter could be a black bear entering a school yard when school is in session, entering or trying to enter a residence, wandering into a public gathering, killing livestock/pets and lingering at the site, or stalking people and lingering around for an extended period.
For non-emergency encounters, call 1-888-310-1122. A non-emergency encounter could be a black bear roaming around and checking garbage cans, breaking into a shed where garbage or food is stored, in a tree, pulling down a bird feeder or knocking over a barbecue or moving through a backyard or field, but not lingering.
For more information on black bears, visit www.ontario.ca/page/prevent-bear-encounters-bear-wise