Visitors to Jasper National Park must learn to safely co-exist with black bears and other wildlife/Jennifer Bain
At least one black bear has been spotted in the valley bottom near the townsite of Jasper, and grizzly bears are expected soon in Jasper National Park.
Parks Canada warns people to be ready to encounter wildlife, brush up on wildlife safety tips, and add bear spray back into their adventure kits. At this time of year, wildlife is also more active beside roads and highways, taking advantage of newly sprouted vegetation.
To avoid an encounter, be prepared to:
• Travel in groups and keep everyone together.
• Make noise during your travels.
• Be alert. Travel slowly when biking or running, and don't wear earbuds.
• Be especially cautious at dawn and dusk, when wildlife is most active.
• Carry bear spray in an easy-to-reach location and know how to use it.
• Keep dogs on a leash at all times, and walk dogs during daylight hours if possible.
• Keep children within arm's reach.
• Leave the area if you see or smell a dead animal.
• Report any concerning wildlife activity or dead animals to Parks Canada Dispatch 24/7 at 780-852-6155.
Last year, several bears fed on fruit trees within the townsite. This behavior poses risks to public safety and to bears that become habituated to human food. Fruit trees can be maintained or removed to reduce or eliminate this wildlife hazard. Parks Canada will remove fruit trees from your property at no charge.
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