A black bear has been spotted at Buttertubs Marsh once again, prompting the city to warn visitors to exercise caution.
On Thursday, July 10, the city posted on Facebook, informing people of the sighting.
This is the second black bear advisory this year for the park, which boasts a wide variety of wildlife. The previous encounter involved an adult and cub in May.
Black bears are most active from April to November, and can be drawn into urban communities due to attractants such as improperly stored or pungent trash.
If someone comes across a bear, B.C. Parks recommends that they should stop and stay calm, never running away. If the bear has noticed the person and is reacting or becoming agitated, the person should speak softly and back away slowly. While backing away, people are advised not to make eye contact but keep the bear in sight, take out bear spray and be prepared to use it.
Under no circumstances should a person feed the wild animal, as B.C. Parks warns that bears which receive food from hikers or eat garbage may become "food conditioned," which leads them to approach campers or hikers, behaving aggressively.
People can find out more information online at http://bcparks.ca/plan-your-trip/visit-responsibly/wildlife-safety/.
