A female black bear with cubs swiped at a tent at a backcountry campground along the Lake Minnewanka Trail in Banff National Park over the May long weekend, prompting Parks Canada to issue a bear warning for the area.
The warning was issued Saturday, May 17, and remains in effect until further notice. Officials say the bear has been displaying “bold behaviour” and has been frequently sighted in the area.
"A female black bear with offspring made contact with a tent in a campground," reads a bulletin from Parks Canada. “Special caution is recommended when travelling in this area.”
Parks Canada has not confirmed whether anyone was inside the tent at the time or what may have drawn the bears to the site.
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Visitors to the area are being urged to exercise caution. Parks Canada reminds backcountry users to keep food, garbage and any scented items closely attended at all times, never dispose of waste in fire pits, and carry bear spray while hiking or camping.
Hikers and cyclists are also encouraged to make noise on the trail, keep pets leashed, and report all bear sightings to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-1470.
The advisory will remain in place as Parks Canada continues to monitor the situation.