BANFF – A bold black bear hanging around the Tunnel Mountain campground and surrounding areas has prompted a warning from Parks Canada.
The warning was issued July 15, and despite efforts for additional information from the federal agency for more than a week, little was forthcoming on this public safety issue. A statement was given Aug. 1.
The male black bear, which was collared in 2022, has persisted in the area of Tunnel Mountain and Tunnel Mountain Campground since July 14.
"While in this area the black bear accessed natural food sources – buffalo berries and ants – adjacent to the Tunnel Mountain Campground and at times entered the campground," said Kira Tryon, a spokesperson for Banff National Park in the statement.
"Over the last week, the bear has been hazed beyond the west end of the town of Banff but may return. As such, the warning will remain in place for the next few days to a week to ensure public safety."
It is not known whether or not this collared bear got into human food or garbage, which would be a slippery slope toward food-conditioning.
However, given the bear is fitted with a collar, resource conservation officers are able to track the bear’s movements.
Meanwhile, in late July, another black bear, which was initially fitted with a collar in Banff by Parks Canada resource conservation staff, was struck and killed on the Trans-Canada Highway east of Lac Des Arcs close to where the province is building a new wildlife overpass.
“Unfortunately, we can confirm a black bear was struck in the eastbound left lane of the Trans-Canada Highway approximately three kilometres east of the Heart Creek Provincial Recreation Area,” said Morgan T Luethe, a spokesperson for Alberta Parks.
“As the bear was collared by Banff National Park staff, we cannot provide further details.”
In the online notice, Parks Canada reminds visitors and residents to be prepared to encounter a bear at any time in this area.
• All food, garbage, and anything with odours must be closely attended at all times.
• Fire pits should not be used to dispose of garbage or liquids.
• All food and garbage must be disposed of in a proper receptacle.
• Pay attention for bears when travelling in this area.
• Make noise when hiking and cycling.
• Keep pets on leash and a close eye on children.
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Report all bear sightings immediately to the Banff Visitor Centre or Banff Dispatch at 403-762-1470.
