Bear Wise

Cottagers have a special connection with nature and the outdoors.  We also have a role to play in co-existing with wildlife. 

FOCA is working in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources Bear Wise Program to help reduce preventable causes of human-bear conflict. 

Many human-bear conflicts happen over garbage, food left out for birds or pets or dirty barbecues.  These can be prevented.  Our tips and information can help cottagers learn more about what attracts black bears and what cottagers can do to bear-proof their properties. 

Ontario's Bear Wise Program teaches people about the known and preventable causes of human-bear conflicts. Established in 2004, the program teaches people about strategies they can implement to not attract bears to their properties and to co-exist with bears where their habitats coincide. 

For more information visit ontario.ca/bearwise

               People who have problems with bears can call the

toll-free bear reporting line

(April 1 - November 30) at:

1-866-514-2327

In a life-threatening emergency,

call 911 or your local police.