Sonja Seher
Recent Wildlife Sightings: Black bear sightings and sign were observed near Elizabeth Lake. A black bear sow and two cubs were seen accessing garbage in Southview. A similar instance was reported near Elizabeth Lake. A black bear was found feeding on fruit trees in the New Lakes area.
Did you know that unsecured garbage is the number one attractant for bears in BC? Please ensure that your garbage is stored in a closed shed, garage, porch, mudroom or basement until collection day. Place your garbage to the street in a canister no earlier than the morning of collection.
If your household waste becomes too much to store before your neighbourhood's collection day, take it to the local waste transfer station. Remember that low volumes of household waste are accepted free of charge! Both Cranbrook and Kimberley Transfer Stations are open 7 days a week, 8:30 am–5:30 pm.
It's the end of the season for fruit trees in Cranbrook. Remember that unpicked or uncollected fruit is a wildlife attractant. If your area permits it, consider installing an electric fence around fruit trees to protect them from harvest and damage by wild animals. For up-to-date installation guidelines for electric fencing for the purpose of wildlife exclusion, visit www.wildsafebc.com/electric-fencing.
If you see any wildlife activity of concern, please call the 24-Hour reporting line for the Conservation Officer Service: 1 (877) 952.7277.