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The original item was published from 3/3/2020 10:24:00 AM to 3/28/2020 4:35:00 PM.

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Posted on: March 3, 2020

[ARCHIVED] Bears are Awake

Grizzly Bear

The following information is provided by Parks Canada.

What’s happening?

On February 28, 2020, Parks Canada wildlife specialists detected a grizzly bear near the Sunshine Road and TransCanada junction, west of the Town of Banff. This is the first grizzly bear sighting in Banff National Park in 2020. 

What you need to know

  • Bears are awake and focused on finding food. Give them space. 
  • For your safety and to protect bears, make noise, travel in groups, keep dogs on-leash and watch for bear signs. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Check to ensure your bear spray has not expired over the winter. 
  • All food and garbage must be stored indoors or inside a vehicle and disposed of in bear-proof garbage bins. Please remind visitors not to litter or feed wildlife. Do not burn garbage or leftovers in fire pits and keep campsites and picnic areas clean at all times. 
  • Remove birdfeeders and other wildlife attractants around your property. Birdfeeders are illegal within Banff National Park. Remove or secure any potential attractants to avoid conflict with bears.
  • Large male bears typically emerge in mid-March and will spend most of their time in the valley bottoms where travelling is easiest and food is most plentiful. Smaller bears will be out in the coming weeks and females with young in late April or May.
  • Please report wildlife sightings, and unattended food or garbage by immediately calling Park Dispatch 24/7 at 403-762-1470. 
  • Information about protecting bears and people can be found on national park websites in multiple languages and on Parks Canada’s YouTube channel. Please share: 


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