Wildlife Activity

WILDLIFE ACTIVITY FOR THE BOW VALLEY
(Banff National Park to Bow Valley Provincial Park)
The following summary is based upon wildlife information provided by government agencies and unconfirmed sightings reported by the public. It is not intended to be used as a real time, complete record of where wildlife is in the valley.

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.

Wildlife Activity

This week there were two reports of  a cougar in Canmore town site.  Public reported the cougar to be hunting rabbits.  The cougar was tracked and appeared to have left town site.  Cougars are active in the Bow Valley and it is a good reminder to keep pets on leash and supervise children.

There have been no coyote sightings or incidents reported. 

Bears are still denning, but may be seen leaving the den as early as late March.

Wildlife continue to be struck on unfenced portions of the highway.  Watch for wildlife on the highway and drive the speed limit.

Important Notes

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 http://tpr.alberta.ca/parks/kananaskis/trailreport.aspx