A hunting expedition near Cochrane, Alberta, turned dangerous when a grizzly bear attacked a hunter on Thursday afternoon. The incident, which occurred south of Cochrane, prompted a swift response from Alberta Fish and Wildlife officials.
Grizzly Bear Encounter Details
According to reports, the injured hunter, a man in his 30s, was airlifted from the Springbank area, located west of Calgary, by STARS air ambulance. Although his exact condition is not disclosed, Alberta Fish and Wildlife confirmed that he survived the attack.
Sheena Campbell, a spokesperson for Alberta Fish and Wildlife, noted that the bear involved in the mauling was shot by the hunter’s companion. This bear is believed to have died as a result. A second bear fled the scene, although its age and subsequent fate remain unclear.
Recurrent Bear Attacks
Bear safety expert Kim Titchener commented on the frequency of such incidents, noting, “We see this every hunting season.” She indicated that both Canada and the U.S. experience multiple bear attacks during hunting seasons. Just earlier this month, in a separate incident, an elk hunter in British Columbia managed to fend off a grizzly, only to succumb to his injuries weeks later.
Incidents like these serve as a reminder of the potential dangers in bear habitats. Titchener emphasized the importance of changing behaviors to enhance safety during outdoor activities, such as hunting, biking, or camping. She explained that hunters often move quietly through the wilderness, which can lead to unexpected bear encounters. Sounds made while hunting may attract carnivores, mistakenly drawing them in.
Grizzly Bear Activity and Safety Tips
As fall progresses, grizzly bears are still active as they prepare for hibernation. “Bears are trying to find food to fatten up for winter,” Titchener remarked, highlighting the ongoing risks during this time of year.
The proximity of the mauling to Calgary is not unusual, according to Titchener. She referenced two fatal bear attacks that occurred previously in Mountain View County, indicating that the area is indeed bear territory. “Historically, grizzly bears roamed across Alberta, and some are returning to their natural habitats,” she noted.
Future Investigations
Officials from Alberta Fish and Wildlife plan to gather DNA samples from the injured hunter to determine if the bear that was shot is the one responsible for the attack. There remains concern that the two bears involved may have been a mother-cub pair.
Continued vigilance and education on bear safety are crucial, especially during hunting seasons in regions where bears are present. By understanding bear behavior and taking preventive measures, outdoor enthusiasts can reduce the likelihood of dangerous encounters.
