Skip to content

Black bear roaming Colwood

A black bear has been making its rounds in Colwood for the past few days.

A hungry black bear was spotted making the rounds in Colwood over last weekend.

Provincial conservation officer Peter Pauwels has received multiple calls from the public about a bear wandering around yards and roadways in the Triangle Mountain area.

The bear was last reported on Betula Place knocking over garbage cans Monday morning.

“I guess it’s garbage day up there,” Pauwels said.

The bear hasn’t approached anyone or appeared aggressive, he said. Conservation officers aren't actively seeking the bear and are allowing it to leave the area on its own. The bear is reported as average size, possibly 150 to 200 pounds.

“The bear is in a really busy area,” Pauwels said. “There is not a lot we can do. Right now it’s running around on the road and there is no point in chasing it.”

Last week, residents reported a bear roaming the gravel pit area in Colwood.

West Shore RCMP Const. Claudia Wytrwal said putting garbage out for pickup at night instead of in the morning helps draw bears into the city.

“Once a bear eats garbage it’s now a fed bear,” Wytrwal said. “Then it knows there is buffet on the street.”

Along with securing garbage, residents are reminded to keep outdoor barbecues cleaned of fats and yard clear of fruits.

West Shore RCMP does not get involved in bear sightings unless the bear poses threat to the public. If a bear is spotted do not approach it. Call conservation officers at 250-391-2225 or 1-877-952-7277.

reporter@goldstreamgazette.com