Grizzly bear

Grizzly bears are found in a lot of different habitats, from coastal rain forests to arctic tundra. They need areas with a good food supply, denning sites, and few humans. Because 80-90% of their diet is plants, grizzly bears move according to where and when different plants emerge.

In Kootenay National Park, grizzlies descend into valleys in spring. They are often seen feeding on dandelions along park highways. They move up into alpine areas in summer, then return to valleys in fall to feed on berries and roots.

Monitoring

Parks Canada monitors bear activity in the park using remote wildlife cameras, radio and satellite collars, and reported sightings from visitors and staff. This data tells us how bears use habitat and gives an estimate of how many individuals there are.

Any direct conflicts between bears and humans are documented to help prevent future occurrences.

Protecting habitat

In Kootenay National Park, grizzly bears and their habitat are protected by law under the National Parks Act and Canada’s Species at Risk Act. Some important travel corridors are closed seasonally, and other area restrictions may be put in place to protect bears.

Parks Canada also restores important habitat using prescribed fire and forest thinning.

Research

Parks Canada collaborates with other scientists and agencies to learn more about grizzly bears and monitor their populations. For example, recent research showed that:

• Grizzly bear populations are stable with an estimated average density of 8.7 grizzly bears/1000 km2 across Banff, Yoho and Kootenay national parks.
• Grizzly bear density was highest within high quality habitat, and far from paved roads.

Protection from human distrubance

There are reduced speed limits on roads in Kootenay National Park, and laws that give all wildlife space. At certain times, Parks Canada uses “no stopping zones” to ensure drivers don’t get too close to bears.

Reducing attractants

Parks Canada provides bear-proof garbage bins and food storage lockers in the park, and enforces the “Bare” Campsite Program to reduce attractants in campgrounds.

Educate yourself! Parks Canada teaches bear safety to visitors, including how to keep a clean campsite, how to use bear spray, and how to travel safely in bear country. Do your part to keep bears safe:

Take the Pledge

I will store my food and scented items safely, and never feed bears: Bears need to find their own natural food sources. Feeding bears, littering, or leaving scented items or food unattended, attracts them to human use areas. This is very dangerous. Dispose of recycling, trash, and food in designated areas. It is illegal to feed bears!
I will give bears space: Bears can lose their natural fear of humans after repeated interactions. If you see bears on the road: Slow down, stay in your vehicle and move on. Chance bear encounters can happen anywhere. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
I will drive carefully and obey speed limits: Slow down to prevent deadly collisions with bears. In high-risk areas, no stopping zones are used to protect motorists and bears. Respect roadside signage, and only park in designated areas to avoid blocking traffic.
I will keep my dog on leash: To a bear, your pet is potentially a threat or prey. An aggressive response from a bear could put you or your pet in danger.

Species at Risk Public Registry – COSEWIC Assessment and Status Report – Grizzly Bear