We can all relate to putting on a few pounds of winter weight as the temperatures start to drop. Bears take that even further every fall as they fatten up for winter hibernation.  

Known as hyperphagia, bears experience a significant increase in appetite to survive the winter — feeding up to 20 hours a day and consuming up to 20,000 calories. And you thought you went overboard at your holiday staff party!  

In this state, bears are constantly on the move to search for high-calorie foods, making them more likely to venture into populated areas in search of easy meals.  

There are several things you can do to help keep Whistler’s bears safe during this vital period before hibernation.  

Secure your attractants  

Managing attractants responsibly is essential year-round, but especially when bears are in hyperphagia. This includes:   

• Garbage: Store all scented items in bear-resistant containers. 

• Barbecues: Keep grills clean and free of food residue.  

• No birdfeeders: Birdfeeders attract bears. Bears are excellent climbers and can access even those birdfeeders located on upper-floor balconies. For alternative ways to attract birds and not bears, consider planting native plants and flowers, installing water features, nesting boxes or sand baths.  

Shut the front door  

Bears have an incredibly strong sense of smell. They can and will follow odors through open doors, windows and garages. Unattended doors and windows should be closed at all times. The same goes for vehicles, where, if you have no option but to store food and garbage in your car, they are best stored in a locked trunk. Ensure your vehicle is locked, too, and windows rolled up.  

Stash the DoorDash  

Bears are intelligent creatures (some might argue smarter than humans, judging by some people’s difficulty opening bear-proof garbage bins). Bears have learned that takeout bags often contain tasty meals. If you order food, bring it inside immediately and don’t leave deliveries unattended on porches or doorsteps.  

Spooky season reminders  

With Halloween just around the corner, remember to not leave candy outside for trick-or-treaters.

A jack-o-lantern might be the perfect addition to the Halloween decorations, but avoid real pumpkins, another attractant for bears.