By Andrew de Souza

Bear sightings common this time of year

May 7, 2011 | 11:20 AM

There have been about a dozen bear sightings near the city and in Little Red River Park, but Saskatchewan Environment says it’s nothing unusual for this time of the year.

According to conservation officer Bonnie Greene, the area around Little Red River Park has an average bear population with several dens in the region.

“In the last two weeks there’s been a few sightings — it’s definitely not uncommon this time of year, especially along the river system,” she said.

“Right now they’re waking up from hibernation they’re going to be scrounging around until things green up.”

Greene said the only bears in Saskatchewan are black bears, which tend to be timid and avoid humans as much as possible.

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However, at this time of the year when there is little food for the animals, it’s important for residents and visitors to be vigilant about cleaning up food, garbage and anything else that could attract a hungry bear.

“Respect them and give them the distance that they require … and for sure don’t be leaving any food out,” she said.

“Just make sure when you’re done camping to clean everything up, and make sure lids are on garbage cans things like that.”

Greene said at this point the ministry would monitor the situation but traps are not yet warranted.

“In a park area like that we’re not going to set a trap right away because there’s always chance of catching a dog and also we don’t like to trap a cub and have a sow wandering around because that could upset her,” she said.

“We’re just going to monitor for now because usually they’re more afraid of us especially if they see a dog or people in the area.”

adesouza@panow.com