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Encounters with bears more likely as they prepare for winter
The black bear population in Saskatchewan is starting to prepare for winter hibernation, and that means they could be on the move a little more in the next few months. The Ministry of Environment is urging the public to be aware that bears are on the move searching for food, which will bring them out in the open more often.
Matthew Tokaruk is the black bear biologist for the Ministry of Environment, and he said that while blueberries are in season for people to pick now, that can also be a hot spot for black bears to show up.
“Right now, bears are really thinking about finding a lot of food and packing on the pounds for hibernation. It’s an important time for bears. They’re trying to eat upwards of 20,000 calories a day starting now and through September, so it’s a really big deal for them.”
At this time of year, blueberries are at their ripest which means they become a main food source for black bears. If berry picking, or any other activity, takes you into bear territory, Tokaruk said there are a few easy things you can do to keep you and yourself safe.