Anyone heading outdoors this long weekend is being reminded to be bear aware as the animals prepare for hibernation. B.C. Parks says bears are entering a phase called hyperphagia, where they fatten up ahead of the winter denning season. During hyperphagia, bears can eat up to 24,000 calories a day. “The bears have their heads down and are very focused on eating, which means they are not paying as much attention to humans,” the agency wrote in a social media post. Officials urged anyone heading into the backcountry to store attractants safely, including anything scented, in a locked vehicle, food storage locker, bear-proof container or bear hang. B.C. Parks reminded hikers to pay attention to their surroundings, avoid using headphones and carry bear spray. More information on how to keep both yourself and bears safe can be found on the WildSafeBC website.
