Black bear euthanized in Waterton Lakes National Park after ‘aggressive’ interaction with hiker

A black bear living in Waterton Lakes National Park in southern Alberta was euthanized by Parks Canada officials last week.

The park said in a social media post officials first became aware of the bear on the evening of May 24, when it was reported the animal approached a hiker on the Cameron Lakeshore Trail.

“The bear exhibited unusual and aggressive behaviour towards humans, in a manner that was deemed not safe or manageable towards maintaining human-wildlife coexistence by a team of Parks Canada wildlife specialist,” the post reads.

Following the encounter, an area surrounding Cameron Lake and nearby trails was closed to visitors.

It reopened to the public on May 27.

Parks Canada says careful considerations were made ahead of the decision to locate and euthanize the bear on May 25. It adds that standard human-wildlife coexistence procedures were followed.

“This action is always a last resort and will only be taken if necessary to do so in the interest of public safety,” the agency said.

Furthermore, it says this human-bear interaction was an isolated incident, but reminds visitors that wildlife and public safety are a shared responsibility.

It’s good practice to hike in groups, make noise, and carry bear spray in a spot that’s easily accessible, and know how to use it.

Park visitors should also stay alert, keep food and garbage secure , and give wildlife lots of space.

Bear sightings should be reported to Parks Canada Dispatch immediately at 1-888-927-3367.