One of the things we love most about living in Whistler is that nature isn't something you have to drive somewhere to find. Sometimes, it comes right into your backyard, or politely passes you on the valley trail.
Trust us when we say: it never gets old.
If you've spent much time in Whistler during the summer, chances are you've seen a black bear wandering through a neighbourhood, crossing the road, or grazing on a ski run. It can be an incredible sight, but it's also a reminder that when you live in Whistler, you're sharing the community with wildlife.
Whistler is bear country, and knowing how to live alongside our furry neighbours is an important part of being a homeowner here.
Why Are There So Many Bears in Whistler?
They're asking the same question about humans. Whistler was built in prime black bear habitat. The forests, wetlands, streams, and mountain landscape provide bears with food and shelter, while the open areas created by ski runs, golf courses, and other development can provide access to grasses and berries.
Bears are particularly active throughout the spring, summer, and fall as they search for food and build up energy for winter. And while seeing a bear can feel like one of those quintessential Whistler moments, we want to make sure it stays a positive experience for both you and the bear.
The Biggest Rule: Don't Give Bears a Bonus Reason to Visit
The most important thing homeowners can do is make sure bears never have access to human food or garbage. Once a bear discovers an easy food source, it can quickly learn to associate people and homes with food. That's when a harmless wildlife encounter can turn into a problem. 'A fed bear is a dead bear' is more than a saying: bears who habitually approach people, break into cars, climb balconies to get to bbq's, or seek garbage are tagged and relocated, then face euthanasia if they return.
A few simple habits can make a big difference:
- Keep garbage and recycling secured in bear-resistant containers.
- Don't leave garbage outside overnight.
- Keep your BBQ clean and free of food residue.
- Don't leave food or food packaging in your vehicle.
- Bring pet food inside.
- Keep compost properly secured.
- If you have a vacation property, make sure your guests know the rules too.
First: stay calm. Bears never want to burn extra calories, so you’re not worth chasing unless you give them a reason.
If you're walking and encounter a bear, don't run. Stop, speak calmly (“Heeeeey bear” works surprisingly well), and slowly back away while giving the bear plenty of space. Never approach a bear, and never try to get closer for a photo.
It's also important to look around for cubs or other bears. A mother with cubs needs plenty of space.If you're out walking your dog, keep them on a leash. An off-leash dog can surprise or provoke a bear and put both the dog and its owner in a dangerous situation.
What About Bears in Your Neighbourhood?
This is where being a Whistler homeowner comes with a little extra responsibility. If you see a bear wandering through your neighbourhood, give it space and don't follow it. Don't surround it, feed it, or encourage it to stay. And please don't create a bear-viewing party. We know it's exciting. We've all seen the traffic slow down because there's a bear grazing nearby. But bears are wild animals, and giving them space helps keep everyone safe.
If you see a bear in trouble or encounter a human-bear conflict, you can report it to the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277 (#7277 from a cellphone).
Just Bought a Whistler Property? Add This to Your To-Do List
When people buy a property in Whistler, they think about things like changing the locks, finding a good cleaner, figuring out the hot tub, and stocking the kitchen.
We'd add one more thing:
Figure out your bear plan.
Know where your garbage goes. Make sure your BBQ is cleaned regularly. Talk to your property manager or tenants about food and garbage. And if you're renting your property, make sure your guests understand that Whistler isn't just a resort, it's a community where wildlife and people live side by side. These small steps can make a big difference.
One of the Things That Makes Whistler Special
Living in Whistler means having incredible access to nature every day. Deer might wander through your neighbourhood, you may see a beaver on the River of Golden Dreams, eagles fly overhead, and yes, occasionally a black bear might make an appearance. That's part of what makes this place so special. We just have to remember that we're visitors in their habitat, too.
So the next time you see a bear in Whistler, enjoy the moment, but enjoy it from a safe distance. And if you're thinking about making Whistler your home, we'd be happy to help you find the right property, and give you a few tips about living here that you won't find on the MLS.
Hillary & Erica Lawson
The Whistler Property Sisters
The Whistler Property Sisters