Grizzly bear visiting Lake Laberge homes, Yukoners warned
Conservation officers say not all animals hibernating yet
It may look like winter in Yukon, but that doesn't mean bears are hibernating yet.
Conservation officers in Yukon are warning people to be "bear aware," after several reports of a grizzly in the Lake Laberge area. The bear has been "frequenting" homes, most recently drawn to a meat cache at a Horse Creek property.
Officer Ryan Hennings said there are a number of reasons bears could still be out foraging.
"Maybe they're still trying to put on extra calories for the winter," Hennings said. "Maybe the weather conditions haven't forced them back into hibernation. It could be a combination of the two."
Hennings advises people to still carry bear spray if they're out skiing or hiking. And he says homeowners should be diligent about keeping garbage and other attractants away from their homes.
Bears typically hibernate when there is no accessible food supply.