Banff National Park of Canada

October 28, 2011 

2011 Banff National Park Bear Update Season Summary

In Banff National Park, a total of 2,193 bear sightings were reported from March through October: 992 black bears, 1,141 grizzly bears, and 60 unknown species.


Grizzly Bear, Banff National Park
© Parks Canada / A. Taylor

Here are some highlights:

• 2011 was an average year for bear activity in most parts of the park, with the exception of the Lake Louise area, which had a higher number of bear-people encounters.
• Seasonal human-use restrictions in important bear habitat continued in the Moraine Lake and Bryant Creek areas. New restrictions were introduced in the Lake Minnewanka area. These strategies were successful in reducing bear-human conflicts.
• It was a spotty year for buffaloberry production, with some areas of good berry production (usually at higher elevations) and some areas that were relatively poor. The Lake Louise area had a poor buffaloberry season, with other berries (such as crowberries) being more predominant at higher elevations.
• Two female grizzly bears that produced cubs this year (litters of three and two) were sighted in frontcountry areas in the eastern section of the park. Grizzly bear female #72 was often seen with her 2-year-olds near Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Other females with various aged offspring were also observed in portions of the park outside of the frontcountry zone.
• It was a bad year for grizzly bear mortalities in the park, with four recorded losses (two females and two males). One of the females left behind two yearlings. They spent the majority of the season in the Lake Louise Ski Area and near Hidden Lake and appear to be in good health.

In this part of the Canadian Rockies, bears typically begin denning around mid-October to late November. But be aware that bears have been known to stay active during periods of extended warm weather or if food is easily accessible.

Remember that other carnivores, such as cougars and wolves, are active during the winter. Be aware of your surroundings when you are out enjoying the park this winter. Please report carnivore sightings to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-1470. See you in the spring!

Bear Updates Photo Gallery 2011 

Bear Updates Photo Gallery 2010