Violet Holmes was stretching after a run around Burnaby Lake last Friday when she spotted a bear on the walking trail.
Holmes, an avid runner, started snapping pictures, and the bear moved towards her.
“I was beginning to ponder my next move,” Holmes wrote in an email to the NOW. “Just then, it meandered into the bush on the opposite south side, and (a) couple came onto the bridge. We chatted a bit, but when we turned to go, there was another bear between us and the parking lot. Fortunately it kept strolling towards Bill Copeland rink, and disappeared into the bushes.”
Conservation officer Jack Trudgian said his office is aware of the bears but that it’s not a public safety issue at this time.
“We have a small bear population on Burnaby Mountain,” Trudgian said. “They tend to come down. We got calls on it.”
Trudgian said the bears are likely looking for food, and that it’s important residents keep attractants (like garbage and compost) secure.
“They are trying to fatten up for hibernation. They’ll be looking for anything they can,” he added.
To report wildlife conflicts that are a threat to public safety, call 1-877-952-7277.
