A recent run-in between a Yoho National Park visitor and defensive bear is serving as a reminder about being wildlife-smart even into the holiday season.
A trail runner accessing the park’s Tally-Ho Trail on Monday, Nov. 24, near the Natural Bridge day-use area, reported encountering a bear that charged them and made contact, according to Parks Canada’s Facebook page, Wednesday, Nov. 26.
“The runner drove themselves to the Golden hospital where they were treated for minor injuries and released,” the federal agency said, adding that Parks Canada wildlife specialists responded immediately to investigate the incident.
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Interviewing the person involved and surveying the area, they found that “the incident appears consistent with a defensive response by a grizzly bear during a surprise encounter.”
Parks Canada estimates Yoho to have between 11 and 15 grizzlies.
“Females with cubs are the first to den up, typically in mid-November,” the agency said on a separate page about grizzlies in Canada’s mountain national parks. “Males in particular stay up as long as they have food available to them, which can be well past Christmas.”
The incident comes four days after a grizzly bear attack in Bella Coola on Thursday, Nov. 20, that left 11 people injured, including several children. Four sustained serious injuries.
B.C.’s Conservation Officer Service reported Tuesday, Nov. 25, that multiple grizzly bears have since been captured in connection with the Bella Coola incident.
READ: 2nd grizzly captured following Bella Coola bear attack
As of Wednesday evening, Yoho’s Tally-Ho Trail and Natural Bridge day-use area remain closed to the public as the investigation continues. The closure extends all the way along the Emerald River between the Emerald Lake and Amiskwi Circle day-use areas. The Emerald Lake Connector route remains open.
“This is an important reminder that Yoho National Park is bear country,” Parks Canada noted. “Visitors must always be prepared and bear aware even during cooler months. Bears can be encountered at any time and in any place, from busy trails near town to remote backcountry sites.”
The agency encourages park visitors to always carry bear spray, keep it accessible and know how to use it. As well, giving bears ample room and not approaching them is important, Parks Canada said.
All wildlife incidents should be promptly reported to the parks dispatch at 403-762-1470.