Calgary bear sightings jumped over 300 per cent since 2021
Posted Sep 16, 2022 7:18 pm.
Last Updated Sep 16, 2022 7:25 pm.
Bear sightings in Calgary have jumped dramatically compared to last year, with an over 300 per cent increase, according to Alberta Fish and Wildlife on Friday.
The city saw 38 bears between May 1 and Sept. 13 this year, compared to 10 last year in the same time frame. There were 23 sightings in September alone.
Three black bears were relocated from within city limits, with one immobilized and relocated in Airdrie in their busiest month.
Alberta Fish and Wildlife says there was one call in May, one in June, three in July, and 10 calls in August this year.
READ MORE: Bear tranquilized after wandering around Airdrie
The black bears that were relocated are all juvenile, and Alberta Fish and Wildlife says it’s common for young bears to leave their sow to be on their own.
In a statement, the Justice and Solicitor General’s office couldn’t say why there is an increase, but that the province and the city are aware of the increase.
“Calgary’s Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services is typically aware of bear movements and locations within the city limits at any given time based on the frequency of sightings reported,” said a spokesperson in a statement.
“One bear travelling throughout the interconnected green spaces within the city limits can often generate dozens of sightings over the period of a day, week or months.”
The minister’s office adds that many species travel through a natural corridor, even in Calgary areas
READ MORE: Research shows grizzly bears and wolves avoid towns, trails in Alberta’s Bow Valley
Calgarians are asked to store garbage in bear-resistant and odour-proof containers, and remove any possible attractants for wildlife.
Officials say pet food should not be left out, and that people should clean their barbecues and food use areas after using them.
For further prevention, wildlife officials say gardens and trees or shrubs with fruit should be removed.
Anyone that needs information can visit the Alberta Bear Smart Program website. Dangerous wildlife can be reported through the 24-hour Report-A-Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800.
