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The city of Kelowna is urging caution from park users, in the wake of multiple reports of bear sightings at Knox Mountain Park.
According to the city’s urban forestry supervisor, Blair Stewart, bears have been spotted several times over the past two weeks, in several different areas.
Stewart said the park’s caretaker has seen bears lumbering close to his house, which is near Pioneers Pavilion in the park.
He, and public using the park, have also seen the animals closer to Paul’s Tomb trail.
So far, Stewart said, none of the animals spotted have shown any signs of aggression. The only minor scare was when a park user came across a cub climbing a tree, but the person managed to back away without encountering the parent.
It’s not uncommon to see bears in the park at this time of year, as the animals are foraging for food ahead of their impending hibernation.
Signs are up across the park cautioning residents that there are bears in the area.
Steward urged residents and park users to respect bears by anticipating and avoiding encounters with them whenever possible.
Staying alert, traveling in groups, making noise and keeping dogs leashed are all important steps to take when using the park this time of year.
“Bears can be aggressive, especially when defending their food or their cubs. If encountering a bear, reduce potential conflicts by staying well away from the animal,” a release from the City of Kelowna reminds.
The city also reminds residents to be “bear smart” and follow advice from WildSafeBC, including storing garbage in a secure building until collection day.
For even more information on bear safety visit the B.C. government's website, or check out the Ministry of environment's Bear Smart program.
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