The Ministry of Natural Resources is committed to reducing preventable causes of human-bear conflict in Ontario. The Bear Wise Program teaches people about black bears as well as things they can do to keep bears away from urban and semi urban areas. We work with community leaders to establish local prevention programs. We offer many education and awareness products including a website. We provide a bear information and reporting line. We work in partnership with police to respond to human-bear incidents.
Prevent encounters:
Learn about black bears:
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| Seed, suet and nectar can attract black bears. |
Be Bear Wise – What You Can Do
People are reminded to take the necessary steps to help avoid attracting black bears into populated areas.
Garbage, outdoor grills and bird feed commonly attract black bears. Minimize your chances of attracting black bears by:
- Putting garbage out only on the morning of collection.
- Storing garbage in waste containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Put away bird feeders and offer natural alternatives like flowers, nesting boxes and fresh water.
- Clean outdoor grills after each use, including the grease trap underneath.
Are You Bear Wise?
Melissa Lamb of CHEX-TV learns about bear safety.
Black Bear Ecology - Teacher Guides
With a focus on the fascinating world of black bears, this program provides teachers with a classroom ready resource. More...
TO REPORT BEAR PROBLEMS: contact the Bear Reporting Line at: 1-866-514-2327 (TTY) 705 945-7641
In a life-threatening emergency, call your local police or 911.
