Squamish's Rona had an unusual customer Wednesday.
A black bear meandered through the lumber yard and was spotted by photographer Aafreen Arora.
The store's manager, Jordan Wolfs, told The Squamish Chief that this bear is a "frequent flyer" around the yard.
"Just have to get him a safety vest and put him on payroll," Wolfs joked.
What to know to protect black bears
Like much of B.C., Squamish is bear country.
The District of Squamish recently reminded locals through its social media channels that we are a Bear Smart Community.
This designation involves a shared responsibility to help mitigate wildlife interactions.
At this time of year, bears become even more intent on eating and may be less aware of their surroundings.
"As the season changes, bears begin preparing for winter hibernation by entering a state of hyperphagia, which means they develop an increased appetite, consuming up to 20,000 calories a day," the District's educational post reads. "This intense focus on food can make them less attentive to their environment."
This means not only do we have to give them a wide berth if we spot them, even if they are browsing the lumber yard, but we also have to take special care to secure our garbage and store it in a locked garage or shed.
"Avoid leaving windows and doors open unsupervised. Properly manage fruit trees and other attractants. For campers, it’s crucial to avoid leaving food unattended and to securely store portable barbecue grills," says the District.
If you spot wildlife or have an encounter, call the Conservation Officer Service's 24-hour hotline at: 1-877-952-7277.
WildSafe BC offers the following ethical wildlife photography tips:
- Do not contribute to human habituation or interfere with an animal’s natural behaviour. Research your subject so as not to interfere with an animal’s routine needs, such as feeding and raising young. An animal that is stressed will expend unnecessary energy that can impact its survival and potentially that of its offspring.
- Do not use calls to draw in wildlife.
- Avoid crowding the subject and use a long lens to maintain your distance. If the animal moves away, you are too close.
- Be respectful of private property. Tread lightly and avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. Stay on trails if unsure.
- Do not stop on highways or roads where speeds exceed 60km/h unless there is an approved pullout. This can be unsafe for fellow motorists or wildlife if they cross traffic.
- Bear viewing is best done from a safely parked vehicle or a regulated viewing platform. Never approach potentially dangerous wildlife.
- Never feed or bait wildlife to obtain a photo (in many cases, this is illegal). This includes the use of salt, which may have the unintentional consequence of spreading disease.
Find more wildlife information and tips on the WildSafeBC website.
