Banff National Park is warning visitors to be prepared for bear activity inside the park after the sharing an image from the first sighting of grizzly bear 122, more widely known as “The Boss”.
According to CTV News, “The Boss” was spotted in the Lower Bow Valley on April 7, prompting the reminder from the National Park. The park shared the image to their Facebook page along with a warning towards bear safety.
Banff National Park is home to an estimated 65 grizzly bears, with a total of 691 living on Alberta provincial lands. Up to 16,000 are believed to live in British Columbia. When hiking in these national parks, it’s important to stay in groups, make plenty of noise, and carry bear spray. Read more on bear safety below.
Banff National Park Traveling Safely Through Bear Country:
• Make noise! Let bears know you are in the area.
• Always carry bear spray, ensure it is accessible, and know how to use it before you head out on the trails.
• Tracks, droppings, diggings, torn-up logs and turned-over rocks are all signs that a bear has been in the area. Leave the area if the signs are fresh.
• Dogs can provoke defensive behaviour in bears. Always keep your dog on a leash and under physical control (it is the law) or leave them at home.
• Larger size groups are less likely to have a serious bear encounter. We recommend hiking in a tight group of four or more. Never let children wander.
• Stay on official trails and travel during daylight hours.
• If you come across a large dead animal, leave the area immediately and report it to Parks Canada staff.