With camping season underway in Saskatchewan, the Ministry of Environment is reminding residents and visitors to "Be Bear Aware," especially as black bears begin to move across large areas of the province.
“We have bears through much of the province, into the parkland and even touching up against the grassland sometimes,” said Matthew Tokaruk, the ministry’s black bear biologist. “As we did see a bear in Regina, of course, here recently.”
The bear spotted Monday in Regina had to be tranquillized for relocation, but due to injuries sustained during capture, it was later euthanized. While such urban encounters are rare, Tokaruk explained they typically involve younger, dispersing bears, what he calls the “teenagers.”
“They're leaving home, so to speak… looking for new territories,” he said. “They’ll cover large distances, maybe travelling along river valleys or other drainages.” He added that this does mean sometimes they end up where they shouldn’t be.
While black bears are more common in northern and central Saskatchewan, sightings in the southeast, including near communities like Weyburn and Estevan, do happen from time to time.
The Ministry emphasizes prevention begins with managing attractants – anything that smells appealing to bears, from barbecue grease and garbage to pet food and even bird seed.
“If it smells good to us, it certainly smells good to bears,” Tokaruk said. “Clean that grill off and take down those bird feeders.”
For those spending time outdoors this summer, Tokaruk stressed preparation and awareness.
“Don’t be feeding bears or bear cubs. That’s not legal either,” he said. “Hike in a group, make noise, and if you’re alone, whistle a tune or talk to yourself. Let bears know you’re there.”
If you do encounter a bear, Tokaruk advised remaining calm.
“Most times, we’re just seeing the back end of that bear running away, and that’s totally fine.”
Should a bear notice you, make a wide detour and back away slowly. Avoid eye contact, speak in a low voice, and don’t run.
“If the bear does approach, which is very rare, drop a hat or jacket to distract it, get your bear spray ready, and if contact occurs, fight back,” he said. “Do not play dead with black bears.”
In urban areas or situations where public safety could be at risk, the Ministry advises calling 911. For non-urgent or nuisance bear reports, residents can contact conservation officers at 1-800-667-7561 or 1-800-567-4224, or email center.inquiry@gov.sk.ca.
Tokaruk closed with a reminder that co-existing with wildlife starts with respect and preparation.
“Much of Saskatchewan is bear country,” he said. “Taking basic steps like putting coolers in vehicles, keeping campsites and yards tidy, and carrying bear spray when hiking. All of these help keep both us and bears safe.”