How to reduce your risk of a bear encounter in Saskatchewan

Black bears are a common sight around Saskatchewan, and the chance of a bear encounter increases as the animals come out of their winter torpor and begin searching for food.

According to Saskatchewan’s environment ministry, most bears are found in the northern forest regions of the province, but their range stretches south into the aspen parkland, Touchwood Hills, Qu’Appelle Valley and South Saskatchewan River Valley.

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The ministry said bears are intelligent, curious and motivated by food. If a bear has found an easy meal, it is likely to return to the same area in the future, so in order to keep people safe it’s important to minimize the attractants that will draw in hungry bears.

The ministry said it’s important to never feed or approach bear cubs, and hike in groups while making noise along the way to avoid startling a bear. If you encounter a bear, the ministry said to stay calm and don’t run.

“Make a wide detour, calmly back away, speak in a firm deep voice and avoid direct eye contact with the bear,” the ministry explained in a statement. “Move towards a vehicle, building, tree, rock, or other cover. Do not climb a tree, black bears are excellent climbers.”

If a bear is following you, you can drop articles of clothing to distract it.

“Get out your bear spray and prepare to use it,” the ministry said. “In most cases, black bears will threaten but not attack. If attacked – defend yourself – do not play dead.”

If a bear poses an immediate risk to anyone’s safety, the ministry said to call 911. Encounters with aggressive bears or other wildlife can be reported through Saskatchewan’s Turn in Poachers and Polluters line at 1-800-667-7561, and additional concerns regarding bears can be directed to the Ministry of Environment.

While bears are most commonly found in rural areas, they can and do make their way into urban environments as well.

The caution from the ministry comes a day after a 200-pound black bear was found in a tree in Regina’s Heritage neighbourhood. Conservation officers attempted to tranquilize the bear, but the animal was ultimately euthanized due to complications with the process.

“Officers have a high rate of success but sometimes the outcome for the animal is not the one we hope for,” the provincial government noted.

No injuries were reported.