Conservation officers have decided to destroy a bear caught on the North Shore on Sunday after reports that the animal was acting aggressively and going through people's garbage and sheds.
"It was being a problem bear for several years, being habituated by humans. A message we're trying to give here obviously to the residents is secure (your) garbage," Alexandre DeJardins of the Ministry of Environment told CTV News.
District of North Vancouver Mayor Richard Walton believes that incidents of bears entering homes have become more common.
"Lately it seems that some bears have been inclined to go into people's homes if they actually smell food and if there's doors and screens open. That's not something I can remember a few years ago, but it seems to be happening with increased frequency," Walton said.
The District of North Vancouver offers bear-proof garbage cans for close to $200, and has been handing out more garbage-related fines to repeat offenders. In all, 41 have been given out this year compared to two by this time last year.
"Nobody feels good in a neighbourhood when a bear gets put down, and I really don't think a citizen wants to feel as if they're getting (a) finger pointed at them as being the principal culprit," Walton added.
But despite the fines and warnings, evidence shows bears are still getting into what they shouldn't. A quick search on YouTube turns up videos from the past two months of bears chowing down on garbage.
Tony Webb of the North Shore Black Bear Network believes bear awareness is improving, but there are a few who still need to get on board.
"I've even known people (to) buy a steel, little shed, put their garbage in there smelling, and the bear has actually torn it open. They're very powerful creatures," Webb said.
"So we're slowly getting there, but we need everyone's cooperation. We can't do this alone."
With a report from Maria Weisgarber
