A long-distance bear is checking out homes and garbage south of Mary Hill and the city of Port Coquitlam is urging people to lock their trash away.
"When the bear is on the south side, it's a matter to deal with," said Dan Scoones, manager of bylaw services for the city. "It's a long way from Burke Mountain."
Scoones said the city has received several complaints from residents in the neighbourhood of Nacht Park south of Shaughnessy Street, and flyers are being sent to homes in McChessney Street, McHugh Drive and McPherson reminding people to secure their garbage and eliminate any other bear attractants.
Scoones is also recommending people call the RAPP line (1-877-952-7277) if they see the bear so conservation officers can track its movements.
A black bear was also spotted last Wednesday lying in the front yard of a home at 1775 Humber Cr. in PoCo.
Diane Arnold said she's concerned about the bear being comfortable around humans because Mary Hill elementary and a park are nearby. "He's not afraid of humans," Arnold said.
So far, bear sightings in the city have been on par with previous years and only one bear has had to be shot because of the potential of conflict with humans. The bear was shot in June in the area of Dominion Avenue because of problems with garbage, Scoones said.
Homeowners not used to bears in their neighbourhood may want to make an effort to keep them out by purchasing a CritterGuard locking system for their PoCo trash bins. The city sells them for $75.
Residents are also responsible for eliminating bear attractants from their yard and failing to do so could result in a $150 fine. No fines have been given out so far this year, Scoones said.
