Ladysmith is surrounded by forests, hills and backcountry wilderness, which are not only home to wonderful trails, but also bears, cougars, deer and other wildlife. 

As a resident of Ladysmith, it's your responsibility to respect wildlife, take precautions while enjoying our trails and forests, and avoid attracting animals into our neighbourhoods.

Tips to avoid wildlife encounters:

  • Travel during the day- mid-morning to late afternoon is best. Avoid dawn, dusk, and nighttime.
  • Stick to marked trails. Some animals avoid them, but others use them too.
  • Hike in groups and stay close together. Keep kids in the middle, not ahead or behind.
  • Keep pets leashed or leave them at home. They can attract or provoke wildlife.
  • Make noise. Talk or sing to avoid surprising animals. If you see signs of wildlife, slow down and consider changing your route.
  • Never wear earbuds. Hearing animal sounds like growls or huffs could save your life.
  • If alone, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be home.

IF YOU ENCOUNTER WILDLIFE

  • Stop and remain calm. Often the wildlife is just passing through and will simply move on if it finds no food source.
  • Do not scream or run.
  • Make yourself look big.
  • Talk in a low and calm voice while backing away slowly.
  • Be prepared to use bear spray (if you encounter a bear).
  • Fight back if attacked.
  • Bring pets and children into the house, if at home.
  • When inside, use an air horn or make loud noises to scare away the animal.

Additional wildlife safety tips and information can be found on BC Parks website.

REPORT WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS

To help keep our community and wildlife safe, the public is encouraged to report encounters to the BC Conservation Officer Service.

Here are 3 ways that you can provide this information:

MAKE YOUR HOME WILDLIFE-RESISTANT

It’s important to ensure your property doesn’t attract wildlife.

Here’s how you can do that:

  • Use bear-proof garbage cans.
  • Keep garbage indoors or in a secure enclosure, and only place it outside on collection day.
  • Pick up fallen fruit and regularly harvest trees.
  • Remove bird feeders, especially in spring and summer.
  • Clean your barbecue thoroughly after each use.