Eating from the fridge, trying to steal a bag: Yukon tracks 3 bear incidents in 3 days

Yukon conservation officers have had their hands full this week, after a number of incidents between bears and people.

According to a news release from Environment Yukon, the incidents happened between June 10 and June 13.

In one, a grizzly bear tried to grab the bag off a cyclist's bike on the Dempster Highway. The cyclist a visitor from New Zealand deployed bear spray and was able to deter the animal.

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"In Teslin, a bear entered a home through an open door and ate from the fridge and garbage," the news release said.

No one was home at the time. A conservation officer subsequently destroyed the bear believed to be responsible.

Two young grizzlies have also been frequenting the community of Pelly Crossing. Environment Yukon says it's been causing concerns for public safety, so one bear has been successfully relocated.

"Conservation officers are continuing to use aversive conditioning on the second bear, including rubber bullets," the statement said.

A pet cat is to thank for scaring off a young black bear in Echo Valley. The animal had pushed open the door while the owner was home, but was startled by the cat and ran off.

People inHainesJunction should also keep their eyes peeled for two groups of female grizzly bears with cubs that have been seen in and around the community.

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All incidents involved attractants

Environment Yukon is urging peopleto make sure their doors and windows are safe from bears, and to minimize anything that could attract them, like bird feed, garbage, composts, barbecues and food smokers.

"All of these incidents involved attractants," said Traolach Murch, communications analyst with Environment Yukon.

"Food-conditioned bears are always likely to approach people, vehicles andproperties in search of food. Conservation officials are reminding the public to minimize wildlife attractants on their property and that includes garbage."

Anyone who sees a bear in a residential area, or has a negative encounter with a bear, can call Yukon's toll-free TIPP line 24/7 at 1-800-661-0525.