Bobcats in the Tri-Cities??

While surfing about information on Coyotes in the Tri-Cities I came across an article from the Tri-City News Paper about a Bobcat sighting. Now, I don't get a hard copy of the paper at my door so I rely on the internet for my news most of the time. This is the first time I have heard about Bobcat's in our area. I knew about Coyotes as I have seen them my whole life, growing up here, but never a Bobcat.

According to Drake Stephens, Coquitlam's Bear Aware Coordinator, he says:
"While bobcats are not known to be a danger to humans, Stephens said residents in areas where the animals are present should lock up their pets. For the most part, the animals will eat rodents and birds, but bobcats, like coyotes, will occasionally feast on a cat or small pet.

Those who encounter bobcats — or any wildlife — are encouraged to give the animal lots of room and make sure it does not feel threatened.

“It is the same with all wildlife,” Stephens said. “Respect their space and don’t try approaching them. You can be injured by a squirrel if you aren’t careful. All wildlife needs to have its space respected.”

Bobcats are widespread across North America and are generally smaller (about 9 to 20 kg) and have more spots than the lynx."

Their lifespan ranges between 12 and 20 years and they are capable of reaching speeds of 55 km/h.

For the most part bobcats do most of their hunting during the early morning hours or in the late evenings and they generally stick to densely forested or mountainous regions.

To read the full story click the link here http://www.bclocalnews.com/tri_city_maple_ridge/tricitynews/news/125175538.html

How to spot a Bobcat. What is the difference between a Bobcat & a Lynx.
To learn more visit http://www.ehow.com/how_8222812_tell-bobcat-lynx-apart.html

Coyote Safety

About a month ago I was driving in the car with my sister, driving down a residential street in the middle of the city. Off to the left we spotted a Coyote trotting down the sidewalk, to our surprise none-the-less.

We don't normally see Coyotes in the day. On occasion we see them at night. I've seen many throughout the years growing up in Coquitlam and mostly while driving so I have never had to think about my safety, although I do worry about others on foot.

I have ask many people lately what to do if we encounter a Coyote. Not many had answers. I know what to do with a Bear but not really a Coyote. Since I didn't know I resorted to Google, of course. LOL.

This is what I have found out according to Parks Canada.
If you see a coyote at a distance
-Stay back. Do not approach the animal.
-Watch it carefully to assess its behaviour.
-Look for other animals.

If the coyote approaches or is close by
-Maintain your distance. Do not turn your back. Do not flee.
-Back away slowly.
-Stay together.
-Act big. Make noise, wave your arms, and try to scare it away.
-Identify and maintain escape routes.

If a coyote attacks
-Fight back. Shout, throw stones, use whatever is available to defend yourself.


I also found the following information on BC's Ministry of Environment's website stating:
CHILDREN AND COYOTES

• It is not normal for coyotes to attack or pursue humans, especially adults.  Problems between children and coyotes are usually the result of the coyote becoming conditioned/comfortable with people as a result of direct or indirect feeding.
• Children shouldn't be left unsupervised if a coyote is in area.
• Parents should pick up small children and carry them.
• If a coyote has acted aggressively or displayed aggressive behaviour towards a human, refer to the Ministry Call Centre (1-800-663-9453).
• It is an offence under section 33.1(1) of the Wildlife Act to feed dangerous wildlife.  Report via 1-800-663-9453 anyone that is feeding or intentionally attracting dangerous wildlife.

COMPOST

• Coyotes aren't as agile or strong as bears.  Ensure that the compost bin is securely built and has a lockable lid.  This should prevent the coyote from gaining access to the compost bin.
• Remove any meat, meat by-products, fish, and cooked fruit and vegetables from compost.
• Sprinkle lime in the compost.  The lime will aid the composting process and help to reduce the odour.
• Covering the compost with a light cover of dirt or soil or a heavy cover of grass clippings will also assist with odours.
• If the problem persists the compost bin may have to be removed.

COYOTE SIGHTINGS - General Information

• Wild coyotes are naturally curious animals, however they are timid and will usually run away if challenged.  Coyotes start posing a risk to people when they lose their timidness and become comfortable around humans - this is usually a result of direct or indirect feeding by humans.
• It is an offence to feed dangerous wildlife under the Provincial Wildlife Act.
• If concerned about a coyote encounter or about encountering aggressive coyotes, keep a deterrent handy.
• Deterrents could include: rocks, sticks, banging pots and pans, tin cans filled will rocks or pepper spray (may not be an option in an urban setting).
• If a coyote approaches a person, make yourself look as large as possible - if sitting, stand for example.
• Wave your arms and throw objects at the coyote.  Use a deterrent.
• Shout at the coyote in a loud aggressive voice.
• If the coyote continues to approach don't run or turn your back on the coyote.  Continue to exaggerate the above gestures and slowly move to safety.
• If a coyote exhibits aggressive behaviour call the Ministry Call Centre (1-800-663-9453).
• All of the above information is available through the website addresses and informational pamphlets.

COYOTE SIGHTINGS - Urban

• People in residential neighbourhoods must work together to ensure that coyotes don't feel comfortable living in their neighbourhood.  Coyotes that are rewarded through direct or indirect feeding will loose their fear of humans and begin to see humans, their yards and their pets as food sources.
• A coyote that is comfortable in one person's yard is going to feel comfortable in everyone's yard.  Become proactive in the neighbourhood and community by helping to educate residents about coyotes.
• Even within cities, adequate food supplies exist to support populations of coyotes.  Coyotes are highly adaptable and will feed on: small mammals (mice, voles. rats, squirrels and rabbits), birds (ducks and geese), raccoons, fish, insects or any other available item.
• Coyotes can be discouraged from hanging around homes by scaring them off each time they are seen and by removing attractants.
• Ensure that garbage and compost is inaccessible, that outdoor pet food is securely stored, fruit is picked from trees and off of the ground and remove/keep clean any rodent habitat (neglected yards, garages or sheds).
• A sturdy fence that is at least 2 metres high will discourage coyotes from entering yards.  The fence must be dug into the ground or a least flush to the ground to prevent coyotes from going under it.
• All of the above information is available through the website addresses and informational pamphlets.

I hope this helps you if you ever end up encountering a coyote on any future walks or hikes you may venture on.

Play safe. Keep safe.

Coquitlam Community Seminars | Kids & Adults

The following are some current community seminar programs regarding wildlife in Coquitlam, BC.
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Parks & Recreation

"Summer 2011 Activities & Programs"
http://www.coquitlam.ca/NR/rdonlyres/0769FD14-EEB3-410F-970D-6F437D30BED3/112122/Summer2011webFINAL.pdf

Seminar: Insects of Forest and Pond (6 yrs and up)
About: Learn about insects, worms, spiders and more.  Discover who hides under leaves on a forest bug hunt.  Join a pond dip and net snails, beetles and damselflies.  In partnership with Metro Vancouver Regional Parks.
Location: Minnekhada Regional Park
Event Code: 358285
When: Wed Aug 24  10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Cost: $8.00
For more details & sign up go to http://signmeup.coquitlam.ca/signmeup/Start/Start.asp?SCheck=162889148&SDT=40764.6640625

Seminar: Lazuli Bunting Walk (all ages)
Details: Observe one of North America’s most beautiful song birds, the Lazuli Bunting.  More common to the Interior, the Lazuli’s only known nesting site in the Lower Mainland is Colony Farm Regional Park.  Program delivered by Colony Farm Park Association, Burke Mountain Naturalists, Nature Vancouver
and Birds on the Bay.  For more information contact Elaine at (604) 937-3483 or www.bmn.bc.ca.
Location: Colony Farm Regional Park
Event Code: 358294 When: Sat Jun 4  9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Cost: Free
Event Code: 358295 When: Sat Jun 4  3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.  Cost: Free
For more details & sign up go to http://signmeup.coquitlam.ca/signmeup/Start/Start.asp?SCheck=162889148&SDT=40764.6640625

Seminar: Damsels and Dragonflies (3 - 5 yrs)
Detail: Join your child in fun, outdoor activities.  Search for flying dragonflies and damselflies and use nets to catch the young ones in the water.  Pretend to be a dragonfly, play damselfly catch and learn how to identify them.  Co-sponsored by Metro Vancouver Regional Parks.
Location: Minnekhada Regional Park
Event Code: 358286
When: Sat Aug 13  10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Cost: $12.00
For more details & sign up go to http://signmeup.coquitlam.ca/signmeup/Start/Start.asp?SCheck=162889148&SDT=40764.6640625

Seminar: Children’s Workshops: Let’s Learn About Lady Bugs (4 - 12 yrs)
Detail: It’s time to take a closer look at our small, black spotted red friends, the ladybugs, a beneficial insect that eats many pests in the garden.  Children will have fun creating their own ladybug while learning more about these beneficial bugs. There will also be a chance to release ladybugs into the Inspiration Garden. Children 8 and under must be accompanied by a mature adult.
Location: Town Centre Park - Inspiration Garden
Event Code: 358446
When: Tues Jul 5  10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Cost: $5.00
For more details & sign up go to http://signmeup.coquitlam.ca/signmeup/Start/Start.asp?SCheck=162889148&SDT=40764.6640625

Seminar: Grasshoppers, Wolf Spiders, Leaf Hoppers (3 - 5 yrs)
Detail: Share the fun of exploring grassy fields with your child. Enjoy insect games and grassland activities in this hands-on introduction to these small creatures.  In partnership with Metro Vancouver Regional Parks.
Location: Colony Farm Regional Park
Event Code: 358283
When: Sat Jul 23  10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Cost: $12.00
For more details & sign up go to http://signmeup.coquitlam.ca/signmeup/Start/Start.asp?SCheck=162889148&SDT=40764.6640625


"Fall 2011 Activities & Programs"
http://www.coquitlam.ca/NR/rdonlyres/0769FD14-EEB3-410F-970D-6F437D30BED3/114135/Fall2011FINALweb.pdf

Seminar: Coyote by Night (6 yrs and up)
Details: Go on a coyote prowl and learn about these wily and adaptable creatures.  In partnership with MetroVancouver Regional Parks.
Location: Colony Farm Regional Park
Event Code: 368329
When: Sat Sep 24  6:00 pm- 8:00 pm
Cost: $8.00
For more details & sign up go to http://signmeup.coquitlam.ca/signmeup/Start/Start.asp?SCheck=162889148&SDT=40764.6640625

Seminar: Mason Bees Seminar (15 yrs and up)
Details: Pasquale Gnocato, expert on Mason Bees, will share his knowledge of the native Blue Orchard Mason Bee, a native to BC.
Location: Town Centre Park - Inspiration Garden
Event Code: 366855
When: Sat Oct 22  10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Cost: $5.00
For more details & sign up go to http://signmeup.coquitlam.ca/signmeup/Start/Start.asp?SCheck=162889148&SDT=40764.6640625



A couple other expired events from this Summer that is worth keeping an eye out for, encase another one gets posted are:

Bear Stories (6 yrs and up)
Join Coquitlam’s Bear Aware Coordinator to hear fascinating stories and facts about our local black bears.  See amazing and amusing photos of Coquitlam’s bears and learn what to do if you encounter one.
Free

Turtle Talk (5 yrs and up)
Learn where to observe turtles in Coquitlam and how to identify the different species found in BC.  Find out what you can do to protect them.  In partnership with the Ministry of Environment.
Free 

If  you know of any other community events, let me know and I will post it on my blog. Thanks.

Anmore Bear attack | August 8, 2011

On one of my other blogs I wrote about the Anmore Bear attack in Anmore yesterday. After writing that I decided to create this blog. This is the write up I did on my other blog http://moorethoughtsbysam.blogspot.com/
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Another Bear looses her life for protecting her cubs, just from natural instinct.

Just after 7am, Monday August 8, 2011 a mother Black Bear attacked a local resident in an instinct to protect her cubs whom were in close proximity to the resident and his dog who where just on a morning walk.

The man was not majorly injured but did walk away with some minor scrapes from the mother and a head wound from a rock he fell on when he dove down a small embankment in an attempt to get away from the charging mother. The mother stood over the gentleman as he gave him her warning. She then turned around and walked away. The man and his dog then came up the embankment back towards her, which is something you don't do. Don't ever walk towards a bear, always walk away. The dog got away and took off after the mother bear provoking another, unnecessary attack.

The mother bear had two opportunities to do some major damage to the gentleman if she really wanted to but instead she just tried to scare them away, like we would do to them normally. Fortunately, the gentleman's neighbour was driving up the road towards them and sounded his horn to scare the bears away.

The mother and her cubs were well known to the community of Anmore. They were aware of their presence but neglected on containing their garbage properly so not to encourage bear activity in their community. Six weeks earlier the Coquitlam Bear Aware Coordinator did a seminar in the community since the activity of these Bears and others were increasing due to their need for food sources.

It's such a shame that this mother had to loose her life. Simple steps could have been taken to prevent her death and their activity within the community. Now three cubs are left motherless and not stuck in a rehabilitation center in Langley.

Check your local community seminars for any Bear Aware nights. The more time we take to learn about our furry neighbours the safer we can keep our community and our bears. If or when I come across some seminars I will post them here so subscribe to my blog or check back often.

My neice and I recently came face to face with a Bear in Port Coquitlam. Because we were talking to one another the bear knew we were there and was not spooked. We had no issues with him/her who was only a few feet in front of us. http://cait-sam-nature-adventures.blogspot.com/

Sources:
A mother black bear that was shot and killed:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2011/08/08/bc-bear-attack.html
Anmore bear pays price for garbage-eating:
http://www.globaltvbc.com/technology/Anmore+bear+pays+price+garbage+eating+ways+following+attack/5224770/story.html
Anmore has to shoulder some blame for a bear attack:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/bc-villages-lax-attitude-toward-garbage-storage-cited-in-bear-attack/article2123449/
They are not man-eaters:
http://www.bclocalnews.com/tri_city_maple_ridge/tricitynews/news/127272338.html
Seminar held 6 weeks prior in Anmore:
http://www.theprovince.com/news/Bear+attacks+Anmore/5223318/story.html

Video from CTV.ca (second half features Coquitlam Bear Aware Coordinator Drake Stephens):
http://www.ctvbc.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20110808/bc_buntzen_lake_bear_attack_110808/20110808?hub=BritishColumbiaHome
Two (2) Videos from CBC.tv (recommend 2nd video titled "Bear attacks man in B.C."):
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2011/08/08/bc-bear-attack.html

Wildlife activity in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam & Port Moody

Within the past year I have really been intrigued by the Bears in our area. It mostly started with a seminar I went to a couple months ago in Coquitlam hosted by Coquitlam Bear Aware Coordinator Drake Stephens.

We have heard quite a bit of Bear activities in our communities this years. Every where you look, whether its a sign on the street, at a trail head or in the news paper or on TV, you can find some sign of bear activity & human encounter.

I have decided to start this blog after a recent attack in Anmore on a man and his dog by a mother bear attempting to protect her three cubs. It was such a shame that the mother lost her life due to human neglect on garbage disposal.

My intent with this blog is to help educate, not just the community, but myself as well through stories, research and experience. I myself have recently come face to face with a bear during a trail walk in Port Coquitlam and have also had contact with bears in the past. My recent encounter was less intimidating for me as I had just attended the 'Bear Stories" that Drake put on and I felt better being a bit more educated and knew what to do and I was fortunate that it went smoothly. This doesn't mean I feel comfortable just yet, I look forward to additional learning, not only with Bears but with all our local animals. We get a lot of Coyotes here as well but its not only Bears and Coyotes that make me nervous, I am also nervous with Deer, Raccoons and Skunks, etc. I want to educate myself on all these animals as well.

Through the duration of my learning, I want to pass this information on to you, so please subscribe to my blog to keep updated on what I learn and the activity that goes on in our neighbour hood.


Provincial Bear Aware website: http://www.bearaware.bc.ca/

Coquitlam Bear Aware website: http://www.coquitlam.ca/Residents/Public+Safety/Bear+Aware+Coquitlam.htm

Report Bear activity to conservation officer service at 1-877-952-7277