In this episode, I dive into the dramatic rise in black bear encounters in Prince George, BC, during the summer of 2023—a season that saw over 2,000 sightings and the destruction of dozens of bears. I speak with Kayla Wiens from the BC Conservation Foundation/WildSafeBC about staying safe in bear country, and with Nicole Button, President of the Northern Bear Awareness Society, about what's attracting bears into our neighborhoods and what we can do to reduce conflicts. Together, we explore the science, the stories, and the steps we can all take to help people and bears coexist more peacefully.
The episode is part 1 of 2 in our urban bear series. Tune in next month to find out how you can get involved, and why you should get your hands on some bear poo.
Want to become a guest on the show? Know somebody who you think should be a guest? Or want to share a conservation story of your own?
Email wilderinsightspodcast@gmail.com or dm me @wilderinsightspod on Instagram.
Northern Bear Awareness Society's Website: www.northernbearawareness.com
Videos and Resources:
Staying Safe in Bear Country - video
