Here’s what park officials want campers to know about bears in October

A black bear is shown walking in this undated photo. (File photo/Ontario Parks)

Visitors to Killarney Provincial Park are reminded to stay alert and be bear-aware this month with black bears still active well into October as they prepare for their long winter sleep.

Park officials say the cooler nights and shorter days have signaled to the bears it’s time to bulk up before retiring to their dens for the colder months.

“In fall bears enter a state of hyperphagia - abnormally increased appetite - and can spend up to 20 hours per day foraging for food,” park officials stated. During this time, officials say bears are on the move foraging to gain the weight they will need to survive until spring.

Park staff offered some tip to avoid negative encounters with black bears, including keeping all food, garbage and scented items, like toiletries, securely stored and out of reach of wildlife.

Those camping in backcountry are urged not to store food in tents and hang packs at least four metres off the ground and away from trees, keeping them well separated from sleeping and cooking areas.

Officials also caution that the popular blue canoe barrels used by many campers are not bear-resistant and must be hung like other food containers.

“Do not bury or burn food waste – animals will dig it up and campfires are not an effective means of disposal," park staff added.

For those staying in the campground, food and garbage should be locked inside vehicles with windows closed and items out of sight. Dishes should be washed immediately, pets kept on leashes, and no food left unattended - even for a short time.

Ontario Parks says a clean, scent-free campsite is one of the best ways to prevent bears from wandering in, adding the animals aren’t looking for conflict, rather just an easy meal.