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Alberta has issued a public safety advisory as bears emerge from hibernation and activity increases across the province.
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In a joint statement Friday, Alberta Forestry and Parks and Public Safety and Emergency Services warned of heightened risk in backcountry and outdoor areas through the spring and summer months, urging Albertans to take precautions.
"Bear safety is a shared responsibility," said Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen. "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."
The province says spring is a high-risk period for encounters, as black and grizzly bears — including sows with cubs — leave their dens in search of food. Limited natural sources early in the season increase the chance of bears approaching roads, trails, campsites and residential areas.
Bear activity typically peaks from May through October. Officials warn that unsecured garbage, compost, birdseed, pet food and decorative fruit trees can attract bears. Reducing those attractants is critical to preventing conflict, the advisory said.
"Safety in bear country depends on our awareness and preparedness," said Public Safety and Emergency Services Minister Mike Ellis. "We urge all Albertans to respect wildlife and follow safety guidelines to ensure both human and bear safety during this active season."
The province recommends outdoor users:
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Travel in groups and stay on marked trails
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Make regular noise to avoid surprising bears
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Keep dogs leashed at all times
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Carry bear spray in an accessible location and know how to use it
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Store all food, garbage and attractants in bear-resistant containers
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Avoid areas with fresh signs of bear activity, such as tracks, scat or diggings
Caution is urged near creeks, berry patches, lakeshores and areas with low visibility — locations bears often use to travel or feed.
If a bear is encountered, people should stay calm, back away slowly while speaking in a calm, firm voice, and prepare to use bear spray if the animal approaches.
Sightings in Kananaskis Country can be reported to Kananaskis Emergency Services at 403-591-7755. Reports elsewhere should be directed to Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services at 1-800-642-3800.
Earlier this week, Parks Canada confirmed that Grizzly Bear 122 — a large male known as “The Boss” — was spotted in Banff National Park’s Lower Bow Valley on April 7, according to media reports citing the agency. The bear is known to roam broad stretches of the Bow Valley and is considered one of the region’s most dominant grizzlies.
"Bears are awake and active," Parks Canada said in a social media post on Tuesday. "To ensure the safety of wildlife and the public during this sensitive time of increased activity, area closures may be implemented as needed.”
The agency advised visitors to stay on official trails, travel in groups, keep dogs leashed or at home, and carry accessible bear spray. Signs of recent bear activity — including tracks, droppings, diggings, torn logs or overturned rocks — should prompt immediate departure from the area.
Sightings of bears or other large carnivores in Banff National Park can be reported to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-1470.
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