Residents should be aware that Fish and Wildlife officers are monitoring the movements of a black bear that was spotted in town on Friday (August 10).

Patrick Mears, Communications Advisor with the Justice and Solicitor General says they have been tracking the medium-sized black bear, estimated around two years old, since Friday. "Fish and Wildlife officers responded and monitored the bear, which is reported to be the size of a German Shepherd dog, as it crossed the Bow River and continued north. On Friday evening, the bear made its way over the 1A Highway and moved north of Cochrane. It was spotted again early yesterday afternoon (August 11) on the outskirts of the town near Sky View Lane and Range Road 44, as it continued its journey to a more natural area."

As far as how residents can keep themselves safe, Mears has some pointers. "Residents should store garbage in bear-resistant and odour-proof containers or buildings. Smokehouses and animal carcasses, including bones, hides and waste, should be stored in bear-resistant buildings well away from people. Pet owners should not leave pet food and feeders outside and they should clean barbecues after each use and keep barbecues in a bear-resistant structure if possible."

Bears are also attracted to gardens and fruit-bearing trees/shrubs and Mears suggests to either remove where possible or pick ripening fruit and store in wildlife-resistant airtight containers. "Any fallen or waste fruit should be cleaned up daily before dark. Bird feeders should not be used between April 1 and November 30."

Lastly, Mears suggests keeping compost inside. "Residents should consider using an indoor composter. Aerate outdoor compost piles frequently and cover these with soil or lime. Do not put meat, fish, oils and milk products in the compost pile."

Bear concerns can be reported through the 24-hour Report A Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800.