Bear advisory issued across Alberta
Warmer weather is a signal for hungry bears and their cubs to awaken for the season.
Alberta Forestry and Parks and Public Safety and Emergency Services have issued a public safety advisory due to bear activity ramping up in the backcountry and other outdoor areas across the province.
“As bears return to the landscape, we ask everyone enjoying Alberta’s trails, parks, and great outdoors to be alert and take the necessary steps to avoid conflicts. Bear safety is a shared responsibility, and simple precautions can help prevent serious encounters,” Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks, says in a press release.
The alert comes as warmer weather moves in, signaling bears to wake up from hibernation.
Spring is a busy time for bears
Spring is a particularly sensitive period for human-bear interactions. As bears emerge from their dens—often with cubs in tow—they are hungry and searching for food.
But natural food sources are scarce early in early spring, which elevates the risk of bears wandering near human-occupied areas like campsites, trails, and even neighbourhoods.
Unsecured garbage, pet food, birdseed, compost, and ornamental fruit can unintentionally attract bears, officials say.
Bear activity is at its peak between May and October.
Outdoor safety tips
In the press release, officials recommend the following safety tips for people venturing into bear-inhabited areas:
Travel in groups and stick to official trails.
Make noise regularly to avoid surprising a bear.
Keep dogs leashed at all times.
Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Secure food, garbage, and other things that may act as an attractant in bear-resistant containers.
Avoid areas that suggest a recent bear activity, like tracks, scat, or diggings.
Lastly:
Never approach a bear or try to take a selfie with it. Not only could you risk severe injury or worse, you could also be subjected to hefty fines and jail time.
Extra precautions should be taken near lakeshores, creeks, berry patches, and places with limited visibility.
If you encounter a bear
If you come across a bear, remember to:
Stay calm and do not run.
Back away slowly while speaking in a calm, firm voice.
Use bear spray if the bear comes within range.
Reporting bear sightings
Bear sightings or incidents in Kananaskis Country can be reported to Kananaskis Emergency Services at 403-591-7755.
Elsewhere in Alberta, bear-related incidents can be reported to the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services at 1-800-642-3800.
“Safety in bear country depends on our awareness and preparedness; we urge all Albertans to respect wildlife and follow safety guidelines to ensure both human and bear safety during this active season,” says Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services.
Header image: Cheryl Santa Maria for The Weather Network.