A mama bear and three cubs have been visiting the backyard of a residence off Old Kamloops Road across from Swan Lake in Vernon.
The family has been making themselves at home for the last few days, climbing trees, sniffing flowers and lounging in the grass.
Leah Balsdon said she and her daughter have been keeping a close eye on the bears, making sure not to let their dog outside when the bruins are around.
The Balsdon’s cub sighting is one of many in the Okanagan this spring, prompting multiple regional districts and WildSafeBC to remind the public to be bear aware.
Tips from WildSafeBC include not putting garbage outside until the morning of pickup, keeping barbecues clean and covered, avoiding bird feeders, picking up fallen fruit immediately, and don’t leave pet food outside.
All sightings of bears, cougars, and coyotes should be reported to the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.
For more information and tips on reducing human-wildlife conflict visit wildsafebc.com.