Alberta is welcoming back some of its most iconic residents as bears wake up from hibernation across the province.
A confirmed black bear sighting along Highway 549, 10 minutes west of Okotoks, on April 19 marks the first in Foothills County this year, serving as a reminder for the public to be bear aware.
Alberta is home to two bear species: black bears, which contrary to their name can be a variety of colours, including brown, blonde and cinnamon, as well as black, and grizzly bears, which are more uncommon and can be distinguished from brown-coloured black bears by, among other characteristics, their significantly larger size and a prominent hump on their backs.
The prime time for bear activity each year is from May to October, according to the Government of Alberta. Spring is considered a high-risk period for bear encounters, as bears emerge from their dens after months of hibernation. With fewer natural food sources available, many bears may venture closer to developed areas in search of food.
People are advised to take appropriate precautions to prevent bear encounters, including making garbage and all forms of food inaccessible to wild animals. Bears may be attracted to pet food, garbage and compost, as well as bird feeders and fruit-bearing plants.
Bears are known to frequent populated areas in Foothills County, with notable cases including a black bear roaming through Okotoks last September and another black bear making itself at home on a property near the hamlet of Cayley in October of 2024.
As Okotoks is located in a wildlife corridor that many animals may enter as they make their way along the Sheep River Valley, sightings of bears and other predators such as cougars and bobcats are known to occur within town limits.
Travellers in outdoor areas, in particular Kananaskis Country and other areas deemed bear country, are advised to stay on official trails, avoid areas with fresh signs of bear activity (tracks, signs, evidence of digging) and use increased caution around shores, creeks, berry patches and areas with limited visibility to minimize bear encounters.
In the event of a bear encounter, remain calm and do not run. Back away slowly while speaking in a calm, firm voice, and be prepared to use bear spray if a bear approaches.
The Town of Okotoks website offers detailed information from Alberta Parks on bear sightings.
Problematic bear sightings and other dangerous wildlife activity can be reported to Alberta Fish and Wildlife at 1-800-642-3800.
