By John Mather, Staff Reporter
Elk Island National Park officials are warning the public to be aware while exploring the park this spring as resident black bears are waking up from their winter hibernation.
Bears live in Elk Island National Park year-round, explained Park officials in a media release.
Although bears are naturally wary of humans, they guard their young and take risks for food.
Understanding black bear behaviour makes aggressive encounters less likely and helps protect visitors and the bears.
While bear presence in the area is natural and a sign of a healthy ecosystem, visitors can still play a key role in staying safe and helping wildlife stay wild.
Some of the more simple steps to prevent surprise encounters with bears while exploring the park include making noise, travelling in groups, and staying on official trails.
Pets must be kept on leashes and hikers should only venture out during daylight to reduce the chance of startling wildlife.
Visitors should be prepared and consider carrying bear spray (yes, even at Elk Island) and know how to use it before you head out on the trail.
Keep the bear spray accessible and motorists should not stop for bears along the road.
Help the Park officials keep bears wild by giving them space when they’re near roadways. Bears viewed too closely or too often can lose their natural fear of people and vehicles, creating risks for the bear and for visitors.
Officials warn visitors to keep all campsites or picnic areas clean because a clean site helps prevent bears from being attracted to food or smells.
Store all food and scented items in secure locations such as a vehicle and bear locker when unattended and then dispose of all garbage in garbage bins.
Visitors are encouraged to report bear and other carnivore (e.g., wolf and cougar) sightings within Elk Island National Park to Park Dispatch at 1-877-852-3100.
If people are planning a visit to Elk Island National Park they can get additional information by visiting the Park’s website at Elk Island National Park website.
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