A sure sign that colder weather's on the way, the bears are bulking up.
These two young Timmins-area bears were spotted enjoying an afternoon snack of fresh berries from a tree.
Black bears get most of their summer energy from berry crops, according to Bear Wise.
"Though black bears will eat carrion, insects, fish, deer fawns and moose calves, the bulk of their diet is plant material. Their natural preference is to find lots of high energy food, like berry patches, that will help them fatten up fast," reads Bear Wise. "Their survival and ability to have and raise young depend on their ability to put on weight before going into winter hibernation."
If you spot a bear roaming checking garbage cans, breaking into an area food is stored, in a tree, pulling down a bird feeder, knocking over a barbecue or moving through a back yard, you can report it to Bear Wise at 1-866-514-2327. Emergency situations where the animal is an immediate threat to personal safety or is showing aggressive behaviour can be reported to police.
More tips for what to do if you encounter a bear are available here.
