If you are planning a trip to Waterton Lakes National Park, watch out for bears. Parks Canada has issued bear warnings and put a closure in place due to recent wildlife activity.
A bear warning is in effect for the Waterton Townsite, the Prince of Wales Hill, and Linnet Lake, as well as for the Bertha Bay and Boundary Bay campgrounds.
Additionally, an area closure is on for Bertha Lake, from Lower Bertha Falls to Bertha Lake, including the campground.
Officials reported that several bears have accessed the townsite and displayed “bold behaviours” in recent days. One incident saw a bear access unsecured garbage over the weekend, with similar bear activity reported at Bertha Lake.
“Public safety is a top priority of Parks Canada,” officials said on social media.
“We are monitoring the situation closely and taking appropriate management action to help ensure the safety of visitors, residents, and staff.”
Visitors to the national park, as well as residents and business operators, are asked to always keep wildlife attractants, like garbage, secured. Officials said failure to do so could result in law enforcement action where necessary.
“Unsecured wildlife attractants have serious impacts on public safety and wildlife,” Parks Canada stated.
Officials advise everyone of the following:
- All litter, garbage, and recycling must be promptly disposed of in the wildlife-proof bins at the park. If a bin is full, let Parks Canada staff know and find the next available bin or pack it out.
- Be alert for the presence of bears, including in the townsite.
- Store all food, cookware, utensils, coolers, and anything with an odour that might be attractive to bears in a secure location, such as a secure building, a vehicle or in the campground’s food storage lockers.
- Carefully supervise small children when they are playing outside.
- Keep dogs on a leash and do not leave pets unattended outside, especially at night.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it properly.
- If a bear approaches, make noise, pick up all food items and garbage, prepare your deterrent and leave the area.
Anyone who sees a bear or any other carnivore in the townsite is asked to call Parks Canada dispatch immediately at 1-888-927-3367.
Further details are available by calling the Waterton Lakes National Park Visitor Centre at 403-859-5133 or emailing watertoncommunications@pc.gc.ca.
READ MORE: Police issue bear safety reminder following backyard sighting
