Be Bear Aware

Released on May 13, 2025

Warmer weather attracts nature-lovers and our wildlife neighbours - bears! These foragers are out of hibernation and are busy searching for food. As you enjoy the outdoors, be mindful of your surroundings.

Black bears are common in Saskatchewan, with most found in the northern forest region. However, their range stretches southward into the aspen parkland and other areas including the Touchwood Hills, the Qu'Appelle Valley and the South Saskatchewan River Valley. 

Bears are intelligent and curious animals. Their excellent sense of smell makes it easy for them to find food, even from miles away. When attractants like food waste, pet food, or bird seed are left out, bears may be attracted to the area and become habituated. Black bears are food motivated and will return to areas where they have found easy meals in the past. Managing attractants helps to keep both bears and people safe.

Here are some helpful tips to follow if you encounter a bear:

• Never feed or approach a bear or cubs.
• Hike in groups and make noise by talking loudly or singing.
• Stay calm - don't run! 
• Make a wide detour, calmly back away, speak in a firm deep voice and avoid direct eye contact with the bear.
• Move towards a vehicle, building, tree, rock, or other cover.
• Do not climb a tree, black bears are excellent climbers.
• If the bear continues to follow, drop articles of clothing such as a jacket or hat to distract the bear.
• Get out your bear spray and prepare to use it. 
• In most cases, black bears will threaten but not attack.  If attacked - defend yourself - do not play dead. 

And remember: keep bears at a distance by managing attractants and being bear aware - your safety starts with smart choices!

If a bear or any other wildlife poses an immediate risk to people's safety, call 911. To report an encounter with aggressive wildlife, call the Turn in Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line at 1-800-667-7561. Concerns regarding bears or other nuisance wildlife can be reported to the Ministry of Environment by calling 1-800-567-4224 or email centre.inquiry@gov.sk.ca. 

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