Around 691 grizzly bears live on Alberta provincial lands, with plenty living in the area’s national parks. Around 65 live in Banff National Park, 109 live in Jasper National Park, 11-15 live in Yoho National Park, and 9-16 live in Kootenay National Park. Black bears are also found throughout the area in much greater numbers.
As the spring continues on, both black bears and grizzly bears are beginning to leave hibernation, searching for food in the valley bottoms before moving to higher elevations as the snow disappears. With more people heading into Alberta’s provincial parks as the weather gets warmer, Alberta Parks provided a reminder on safe recreation in bear country:
Black bears and grizzly bears can pose a threat on Alberta provincial and national park land. The province encourages the public to learn the difference between the two species and understand how to use bear deterrents like bear spray and bear resistant trash cans as bears exit hibernation. Read more on bear safety in Alberta below.
Alberta Parks Guide To Avoiding Bear Encounters:
The best method to avoid bear encounters
- Remain alert.
- Shouting regularly or singing loudly is far more effective than using bear bells.
- Keep your ears open. Do not wear headphones or earbuds while on trails.Watch for fresh bear signs. Tracks, scat and digs indicate that a bear has been in the area. Leave the area if the signs are fresh or if you encounter carrion.
- Travel in groups and during daylight whenever possible.
- Keep your dog on a leash or leave it at home.
- Be aware if any attractants you many have and store them correctly.
- Carry and know how to use bear spray.
- When in Kananaskis Country, report bear sightings to Kananaskis Emergency Services at 403-591-7755.
- If you are outside Kananaskis Country, report bear sightings to 310-LAND (5263)
In Campgrounds
- Always keep your campsite free of garbage.
- Store food (including pet food) and toilet articles such as soap and toothpaste in the trunk of your vehicle; never take these items into your tent or tent trailer.
- Seal garbage in plastic bags; use bear-proof bins to dispose of garbage.
- Water used for cleaning dishes and bathing should be disposed of in toilets or sealed in plastic bags and placed in bear-proof bins.
- Never burn scrap food; bears have an extremely good sense of smell and are attracted by food odours.
If you encounter a bear
- STOP! STAY CALM. Your calm behaviour can reassure the bear. Screams or sudden movements may trigger an attack.
- NEVER RUN – running may cause the bear to pursue you.
- Pick up small children and stay in a group.
- Bears may approach or stand on their hind legs to get a better look at you or to pick up your scent. This is their way of identifying you and is not an aggressive response.
- BE HUMAN. Speak to the bear calmly and firmly. This indicates that you are not a prey animal. Appear passive.
- If you have bear (pepper) spray, get your hands on it and be ready to use it. Take note of the direction and strength of the wind.
- Keep your backpack, hiking poles and other equipment – they can provide protection.
