Residents across the RMWB are continuing to find themselves coming face-to-face with bears.

Since the start of the year, there have been 134 encounters.

In 2020, there were 248 reports with 80 being caught and 49 having to be put down.

Of this year’s encounters, 33 bears were captured with 11 being relocated and 22 having to be put down.

Over half of the encounters have been across Fort McMurray – whether it be on the golf course, park, or in a neighbourhood.

Nine per cent were also discovered wandering around the rural communities.

If a bear is spotted, residents should stay as far away as possible and move inside, while also calling the Report-A-Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800.

Those who plan on walking any trails across the region are also reminded to bring bear spray with them.