Inn owner frustrated province won't trap problem bear

The owner and operator of a bed and breakfast near Peggys Cove, N.S., is unhappy the Department of Natural Resources won't trap a bear that has been lurking around his property.

Robert Code of Code's Oceanside Inn in West Dover said he recently noticed heavy outdoor furniture had been moved around the property.

He said bird feeders had also been knocked off trees with no explanation.

On Thursday night, Code's brother spotted a bear walking through the inn's parking lot.

"It has the potential to cause problems," said Code. 

"My concern is the welfare of tourists in the area that do visit our bed and breakfast, and secondly, the welfare of the bear."

Trap and release

Code would like to see the bear trapped and released to another location.

In a statement, the Department of Natural Resources said it's not uncommon for wildlife to come into contact with people, especially in rural areas.

Spokesperson Bruce Nunn said property owners should first look to remove things that might attract bears, such as bird seed that has spilled from bird feeders, loose garbage and compost, until the bear learns to go elsewhere for food.

'Why should we eliminate our bird feeders?'

Code said bird seed is needed to attract the many birds that frequent the property, like hummingbirds and blue jays.

Nunn said that people encountering problem bears should file a report with the department.

He said it would then be determined whether trapping or other measures were warranted.