Whistler residents told to keep pumpkins and candy inside as grizzly returns to town

A grizzly bear captured in Whistler, B.C. on Friday has returned to the community just in time for Halloween, prompting a public warning about not leaving candy and pumpkins outdoors. (B.C. Ministry of  Environment and Climate Change Strategy - image credit)
A grizzly bear captured in Whistler, B.C. on Friday has returned to the community just in time for Halloween, prompting a public warning about not leaving candy and pumpkins outdoors. (B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy - image credit)

Conservation officers are warning trick-or-treaters to use use extra caution in Whistler, B.C. tonight as a grizzly bear has been spotted in the community.

The district municipality issued a public alert cautioning people to keep pumpkins and candy indoors in order to avoid attracting the bear.

According to the alert, the bear had been removed from the community on Friday but has since returned.

It is eating natural food and not indicating any aggressive behaviour, the alert states.

"We recognize Halloween festivities are taking place tonight and understand this may cause concern to residents," the warning says, adding that conservation officers, police and city officials are monitoring the bear's activity to ensure public safety.

"We ask the public to be patient, continue to give the bear space and secure all attractants to help prevent conflicts. Grizzly bears will be denning soon."

Wildlife officials have noted an apparent uptick in grizzly bear sightings in B.C. cities this year. They tend to be particularly active in autumn as they attempt to fatten themselves up before winter.

The B.C. Conservation Service asks people who see aggressive or threatening bears to call 1-877-952-7277. Learn more about co-existing with bears and how to avoid encounters at WildSafeBC.com.