Wildlife Activity

Wildlife Report March 2013

Cougar Activity

We live in Cougar country.  Cougar live, feed, and breed in the valley and it is our responsibility to be CougarSmart when living and recreating here.  Please supervise children in your yard and keep pets on leash.

A cougar killed a deer in someone’s backyard in Canmore.  Learn more.

Cougar prowls Catamount Court

www.rmoutlook.com/article/20130307/RMO0801/303079984/0/rmo08

Bear Activity

No bears have been sighted, but it is the time of year where male bears will be waking.  Time to dust off the bear spray and check the expiry date.  Spring is about to be sprung!

Wildlife Corridors

Wildlife Corridors are a hot topic there days.  If you are new to town and want to learn more check out the article “Where the wildlife roam”

www.wildsmart.ca/pdffiles/Wildlife_corridors_March_2009.pdf

WILDLIFE 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 wildlife activity such as scats, tracks, and diggings. Make lots of noise while recreating.  Hike, ski and snowshoe in groups when possible; carry pepper spray; and obey closures.

If you encounter an animal (elk, deer, wolf, cougar etc) on the trail or close to you, leave the area. This will prevent the animal from getting used to people. If the animal does approach you, increase your distance. If it persists, try and appear large and speak firmly to the animal. Pick up a large stick if one is handy. Prepare your bear spray and discharge it in the animal’s face if necessary.

Wildlife Cautions/ Closures

Please report all incidents of aggressive coyotes as well as cougar or other unusual wildlife sightings to 403-591-7755. For current postings of Wildlife Warnings and Closures please visit tpr.alberta.ca/parks/kananaskis/trailreport.aspx