OPP issue safety reminder after mother bear, cubs encounter near Port Elmsley
Lanark County OPP are reminding residents to take precautions after a reported bear encounter in the Port Elmsley and Beveridge Locks area.
Police say they received a call on Friday, April 24, 2026, after a person out walking came across a mother black bear and her cubs.
Officers noted that bears have recently emerged from hibernation and, until natural food sources become available, will search for food left outdoors such as garbage, pet food and barbecues.
Bears usually avoid humans, but they are attracted into urban and rural areas to get food. They are attracted to:
- strong food aromas
- the scent of garbage
- cooking smells
- ripe fruits and pet food left outside
Bears do not like surprises. To avoid bear-human encounters while outdoors:
- travel in groups of two or more-people who travel alone are most vulnerable
- scan your surroundings and do not wear headphones
- watch for signs of bear activity such as tracks, claw marks on trees, flipped-over rocks or fresh bear droppings
- leash your dog-an uncontrolled, untrained dog may lead a bear to you
- pay attention, especially if you are working, gardening or berry picking
- rise slowly if you are in a crouched position so that you don’t startle nearby bears
- avoid strong fragrances that may cause a bear to be curious, put any food you are carrying in sealed containers in your pack
- carry a whistle or air horn
- understand the use and limitations of bear spray and carry it where it’s easy to access. Bear spray is highly effective at deterring bears at close range
Police say residents should call the toll-free Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866-514-2327 or TTY 705-945-7641 if a bear:
- roams around or checks garbage cans
- breaks into a shed where garbage or food is stored
- is in a tree
- pulls down a bird feeder or knocks over a barbecue
- moves through a backyard or field but does not linger
Residents are advised to call 911 or their local police if a bear poses an immediate threat to personal safety and exhibits threatening or aggressive behaviour, such as:
- enters a school yard when school is in session
- stalks people and lingers at the site
- enters or tries to enter a residence
- wanders into a public gathering
- kills livestock/pets and lingers at the site