Another wildlife warning issued in Kananaskis — but it’s not for bears

A wildlife warning was issued in Kananaskis on Friday, but unlike two earlier alerts this month, the latest advisory is not for bears.

Alberta Parks issued the warning May 16 for Alberta provincial park locations on Larch Island near the Town of Canmore. The reason listed is: "Cow Elks Calving."

The warning remains in effect until further notice.

"Although a warning is in place for these areas, elk can be encountered anywhere in Kananaskis Country and at any time," the notice states.

To minimize the chance of conflict with elk, Alberta Parks advises:

• Being aware of your surroundings

• Keeping your pet on a leash at all times

• Keeping your distance — stay at least three bus lengths away

• Not approaching elk or their calves

• Leaving newborn calves alone

"Female elk can be especially aggressive during the May–June calving season," the notice states. "[Spring only] newborns will spend much of their time alone in their early days and will appear lifeless in order to avoid detection by predators. Their mother is not far away."

Aggressive elk encounters should be reported to Alberta Parks at 403-591-7755.

The Larch Island warning adds to two wildlife alerts already active in Kananaskis Country related to bear activity.

On May 8, a bear warning was issued for the Kananaskis Country Golf Course, including parking lots, Club House, maintenance compound, and other buildings. Alberta Parks cited "multiple grizzly and black bears frequenting the area."

On May 14, a bear closure was announced for the Rockwall Trail and Peter Lougheed Discovery Centre Meadow Area, due to "multiple bears frequenting the area."

That closure remains in effect until further notice. In both bear notices, Alberta Parks advises the public to:

• Make plenty of noise and travel in groups

• Be aware of surroundings and look and listen for bears and their signs

• Keep pets on a leash

• Carry bear spray — ensure it is accessible and that you know how to use it

All bear sightings should be reported immediately to 403-591-7755.

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