Whistler residents told to keep pumpkins and candy inside as grizzly returns to town

Conservation officers arewarning trick-or-treaters to use use extra caution in Whistler, B.C. tonight as a grizzly bear has been spotted in the community.

The district municipality issued a public alertcautioning people to keep pumpkins and candy indoors in order to avoid attracting the bear.

According to the alert, the bear had been removed from the community on Friday but has since returned.

It is eating natural food and not indicating any aggressive behaviour, the alert states.

"We recognize Halloween festivities are taking place tonight and understand this may cause concern to residents," the warning says, adding that conservation officers, police and city officials are monitoring the bear's activity to ensure public safety.

"We ask the public to be patient, continue to give the bear space and secure all attractants to help prevent conflicts. Grizzly bears will be denning soon."

Wildlife officials have noted an apparent uptick in grizzly bear sightings in B.C. cities this year. Theytend to be particularly active in autumn as they attempt tofatten themselves up before winter.

The B.C. Conservation Service asks people who see aggressive or threatening bears to call 1-877-952-7277. Learn more about co-existing with bears and how to avoid encounters atWildSafeBC.com.