Legendary grizzly ‘The Boss’ and other Alberta bears emerging from winter dens

As the warmer weather arrives in Alberta, so do the bears. Bear No. 122, also known as “The Boss,” has emerged from his winter den in Banff National Park’s Bow Valley, ready to start another year of foraging for food and exploring his territory.

The sighting of The Boss is a sign that spring is in full swing, as grizzly bears typically begin to emerge from their dens in April and May. With more bears leaving their dens every day, the province of Alberta issued a safety alert urging hikers and backcountry users to be cautious and prepared for potential encounters with wildlife.

Alberta’s Minister of Forestry and Parks, Todd Loewen, emphasized the importance of bear safety as a shared responsibility. Simple precautions such as carrying bear spray, traveling in groups, making noise, managing attractants, and leashing pets can help prevent dangerous encounters with bears.

John Paczkowski, a human wildlife coexistence team lead with Alberta Forestry and Parks, highlighted the need for outdoor enthusiasts to be prepared for bear encounters. He advised individuals to dust off their bear spray, carry it at all times, and know how to use it effectively. Paczkowski also recommended traveling in groups, making plenty of noise, and properly managing attractants to avoid attracting bears.

The early emergence of The Boss is not surprising, as large male bears like him are typically the first to leave their dens in search of food. With natural food sources still scarce, bears are drawn to valley bottoms where they can find grasses, dandelions, and other plants to eat. This increases the likelihood of encountering bears in areas where humans also frequent.

To educate the public on bear safety, Bear Day is being held at the Canmore Nordic Centre Day Lodge. The event offers participants the opportunity to practice using bear spray, learn about bear behavior, and watch a bear trapping demonstration. In case of bear sightings or dangerous wildlife activity, the province urges individuals to report it to Fish and Wildlife.

As bear activity ramps up in Banff National Park, area closures may be implemented to ensure the safety of both bears and humans. Active closures will be posted online for the public to stay informed.

In conclusion, as bears become more active in the spring months, it is crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to be vigilant and prepared for potential encounters with wildlife. By following bear safety guidelines and reporting any sightings or dangerous activity, we can coexist safely with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.