In a startling early morning encounter, a Hudson, Quebec resident captured dramatic footage of a black bear casually exploring her property last week, highlighting the increasing wildlife interactions in Montreal’s suburban communities.
Johanne Aird was alerted to the unexpected visitor when her Ring camera detected movement at approximately 5:30 a.m. The notification revealed a sizable black bear wandering through her yard, investigating her property with apparent curiosity before disappearing into the neighboring woods.
“I couldn’t believe my eyes when I checked the notification,” Aird told CO24 News. “You expect to see raccoons or maybe deer, but not a black bear just meters from your back door. It was both fascinating and concerning.”
Wildlife officials note this encounter represents a growing pattern of black bear sightings throughout Quebec’s residential areas, particularly in communities bordering natural habitats. The Ministry of Wildlife and Natural Resources has documented a 30% increase in reported bear sightings across southern Quebec over the past three years.
“What we’re witnessing is the natural result of expanding development into previously undisturbed wildlife territories,” explained Dr. Martin Beauchamp, wildlife ecologist at McGill University. “Black bears are incredibly adaptable animals with extensive home ranges that increasingly overlap with human settlements.”
Local authorities advise residents to remain vigilant but not alarmed. Black bears are typically non-aggressive but can become problematic when they associate human properties with food sources. The Hudson incident serves as a reminder of proper waste management practices in areas where wildlife interactions are possible.
“We strongly recommend securing garbage bins, removing bird feeders during summer months, and never leaving pet food outdoors,” said Lieutenant André Trudeau of the Sûreté du Québec. “These simple precautions significantly reduce the likelihood of attracting bears to residential properties.”
For Aird and her neighbors, the encounter has sparked community conversation about coexistence with local wildlife. The Hudson town council has announced plans for a public information session focusing on wildlife awareness and safety protocols.
“This isn’t just about one bear in one backyard,” noted Hudson Mayor Jamie Nicholls. “It’s about developing sustainable approaches to sharing our environment with the wildlife that was here long before our homes were built.”
As Quebec’s summer season approaches and outdoor activities increase, wildlife experts emphasize the importance of awareness in areas where bear populations exist. The province’s Canada News section offers comprehensive guidelines for minimizing negative wildlife interactions while enjoying Quebec’s natural spaces.
As communities like Hudson continue to expand into previously wild areas, how will we balance our desire for suburban comfort with the reality of sharing space with native wildlife like the black bear?
