Recent reports of heightened bear activity in Alberta’s mountain regions have led wildlife specialists to urge outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution while traversing bear country. As the spring season unfolds, bears are emerging from hibernation, driven by hunger and the search for food, leading to more frequent encounters between humans and these majestic animals.
Understanding Bear Behaviour in Spring
Nick de Ruyter, the director of WildSmart at the Biosphere of the Bow Valley, explains that bears typically awaken after five to six months of hibernation, and their primary focus becomes foraging for sustenance. “This time of year, bears are hungry and searching for food sources. With snow still present at higher altitudes and warmer weather in the valleys, they head down to areas where food is more accessible,” he stated.
This seasonal behaviour has led to an increase in bear sightings, particularly around popular trails and campsites. In Banff National Park, a bear warning was issued for the Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes trails, as well as the Twin Lakes campground, after a cinnamon-coloured black bear exhibited concerning behaviour by closely approaching a hiker.
Trail Closures and Safety Warnings
Kananaskis Country is also experiencing a surge in bear activity, prompting numerous trail closures and warnings. This week, areas such as the Terrace Trail and Kovach Ski Trails in Spray Lakes Provincial Park have been affected, alongside advisories for the Heart Creek Trail and the Trans Canada Trail, where multiple black bear sightings, including mothers with cubs, have been reported.
As spring weather invites more visitors to the mountains, the overlap of humans and hungry bears is becoming increasingly common. De Ruyter highlights the bears’ attraction to easily accessible food sources: “At this time of year, bears gravitate towards green grass and dandelions, often found along roads, trails, parks, and even residential backyards.”
Given this natural behaviour, it is essential to allow bears the space to feed undisturbed.
Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts
For those planning to explore Alberta’s backcountry, de Ruyter offers several important recommendations for safety. First and foremost, he urges hikers to stay informed about current trail warnings and closures. “Make sure to purchase bear spray and understand how to use it effectively; always carry it on your person rather than in a backpack,” he advised.
Moreover, making noise while hiking is crucial. De Ruyter suggests vocalising—using your voice to announce your presence is more effective than relying on bear bells, which may not be loud enough. Travelling in groups also helps, as larger parties tend to be more intimidating to wildlife.
“Keeping pets on a leash is vital, and the most important rule is to maintain a safe distance from bears,” he added. If hikers give bears at least 100 metres—equivalent to ten school bus lengths—of space, the likelihood of a negative encounter diminishes significantly.
Seasonal Movement of Bears
As summer approaches, bears are expected to gradually migrate to higher elevations. However, during the berry season, they will return to lower valleys to feed before moving back up as the berries begin to ripen later in the summer.
For those keen to stay updated on the latest warnings and closures in both Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country, information is readily available on the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley’s website.
Why it Matters
The increasing frequency of bear sightings in Alberta’s mountainous parks serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human activities. As more people venture into these natural spaces, understanding wildlife behaviour and taking proactive safety measures is essential. By respecting the habitats of these magnificent creatures, we not only safeguard our own well-being but also contribute to the conservation of Alberta’s rich and diverse ecosystems.
