If you plan on spending time in the park this long weekend, you’ll probably see some wildlife. There are some rules to know when dealing with wildlife.
Feeding wildlife is illegal and could result in charges. This is the case because animals would learn that people provide food, and it could seek our food instead of their own natural sources.
If you have your dog with you, keep it on its leash, off-leash dogs is one of the most common causes of wildlife attacks.
If you’re in a campsite, keep it clean and store items that could lure wildlife in a vehicle to keep wildlife away from your site.
If you plan to hike, go in a group and go during the day. Animals are more active in the early dawn and late evening. One thing to note is travelling in a group and making noise is safer than travelling quietly alone.
If you see wildlife on the side of the road, only stop if it’s safe to do so. Pulling over to observe wildlife on highways can cause a few serious hazards. It teaches animals that vehicles on highways are nothing to be afraid of. Pulling over could also become a visual obstruction for other drivers.
If you come across wildlife, stay 30 metres away from large animals and 100 metres away from bears, wolves, coyotes, and cougars.
Carry bear spray, just in case, and know how to use it. If a large animal such as a bear, wolf or cougar approaches you bear spray can be very effective in deterring them. It irritates the animal’s eyes and skin and could affect breathing but the spray is not lethal.
Finally, always stay on designated trails and let someone else know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.