Information Bulletin: Seasonal Increase in Bear Activity — Please Secure Attractants

The District of Sooke is advising residents that bear activity is increasing in several neighbourhoods as seasonal wildlife movement continues. 

Living in Sooke means sharing our community with wildlife. Bears and other animals are a natural and important part of our environment, and small actions by residents can make a meaningful difference in keeping both people and wildlife safe. 

We are proud to share that we made it through all of 2025 with no bear deaths within District boundaries as a result of human–wildlife conflict. This is a significant achievement for our community, and we thank residents for the care and responsibility that helped make this possible. We hope to continue this positive trajectory together. 

As activity increases, residents may notice bears accessing garbage cans, compost, and bird feeders. Even when lids are closed or feeders are elevated, food odours can attract wildlife and encourage repeat visits. 

How Residents Can Help 

• Store garbage and compost inside a secure garage or shed whenever possible
• If indoor storage is not available, use wildlife-resistant cans and ensure lids are fully latched
• Rinse cans regularly to reduce odours
• Freeze food scraps until collection day to minimize smells
• Place garbage cans at the curb only on the morning of collection — not the night before
• Temporarily remove bird feeders during periods of increased bear activity 

Taking these steps helps prevent wildlife from becoming food-conditioned, which can lead to conflict and, in some cases, animals being relocated or destroyed — an outcome the community works hard to avoid. 

Bylaw Requirements 

Under the District of Sooke Animal Regulation and Impounding Bylaw No. 392, residents must not intentionally or unintentionally provide food to wildlife, with limited exceptions such as bird feeders. Unsecured wildlife attractants may result in enforcement action and a $150 fine per violation. Enforcement is intended as a last resort; education and prevention remain the District’s primary focus. 

Residents may also see volunteers from the Wild Wise Society in local neighbourhoods providing education and resources on responsible wildlife stewardship. If you see these helping hands, please say hello - they are a wonderful resource and happy to share practical tips. 

Those interested in contributing a few hours each month to support wildlife education and outreach are encouraged to connect with Wild Wise Society. Neighbourhood champions help mobilize and share information to support everyone in our community, including our furred, feathered, and finned friends, to thrive. Learn more at: www.wildwisesociety.org. 

By working together, Sooke can continue protecting neighbourhoods while supporting safe coexistence with wildlife.