Bear Activity: June 29 to July 5, 2012

BEAR SUMMARY FOR THE BOW VALLEY
(Banff National Park to Bow Valley Provincial Park)

For the Period: June 29 to July 5, 2012

Bear Activity Trends

There was black bear activity reported in the  Canmore Nordic Centre, Bow Flats, TSR Resort, Bow Valley Prov Park, YMCA, and Quarry/Grassi Lakes zones this week. Grizzly bear activity was reported in Alpine Club, Rundleview, Quarry/Grassi lakes, Cougar Ck/Eagle Terrace, and Silvertip zones this week.

Education Tidbit

Black bears can come in a variety of colours and are not always black. There are known to be several brown – cinnamon coloured black bears residing in the Bow Valley around Canmore. These bears are regularly mistaken for grizzly bears and reported as such. Regardless of which bear species one may encounter, residents and recreationalists need to carry bear spray, know how to use it, and know how to respond to encounters with bears.  Be aware of travel restrictions and respect any closures one may run into. In the meantime, enjoy the many recreational hiking trails that exist in the BowValley providing people with exceptional outdoor and educational opportunities.

Please report all bear sightings to 403 591 7755.

BEARS CAN BE ENCOUNTERED ANYWHERE, ANYTIME!

Be aware of your surroundings, know how to reduce the likelihood of encounters, and be prepared should an encounter take place. Always use caution by paying attention to signs of bear activity such as scats, tracks, and digging. Make lots of noise while hiking; hike in groups when possible; carry pepper spray; and obey closures.

The above summary is based upon a compilation of bear information provided by government agencies and unconfirmed sightings reported by the public over the last week. It is not intended to be used as a real time, complete record of where bears are in the valley.