Local police have responded to four bear sightings in the past week in the Petawawa area.
The Upper Ottawa Valley OPP is reminding the public that black bears that come into populated areas aren’t always a threat to public safety.
You should call 911 if a black bear is exhibiting threatening or aggressive behavior.
In non-emergency situations you can call the Bear Wise reporting line.
Emergency Situations
- Entering a school yard when school is in session
- Stalking people and lingering at the site
- Entering or trying to enter a residence
- Wandering into a public gathering
- Killing livestock/pets and is lingering at the site
Non-Emergency Encounters
Call the toll-free Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866-514-2327 (TTY 705-945-7641) if a black bear is:
- Roaming around, checking garbage cans
- Breaking into a shed where garbage or food is stored
- In a tree
- Pulling down a bird feeder or knocking over a barbecue
- Moving through a backyard or field but is not lingering