Kananaskis and its neighbouring towns, including Banff and Canmore, are home to diverse wildlife, including bears, wolves, elk, and more. Spotting these animals in their natural habitat can be an exciting experience, but it is important to follow proper wildlife safety guidelines to keep you and the wildlife safe.
Respect Wildlife and Stay Safe
Follow these essential wildlife safety guidelines:
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Give wildlife space – Keep a minimum distance of:
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30 metres (3 bus lengths) from deer, elk, sheep, and moose (including when in a vehicle).
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100 metres (10 bus lengths) from carnivores including, bears, wolves, cougars, and coyotes (including when in a vehicle).
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Never approach, follow, or feed wildlife – This can harm people and animals.
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Never leave food, wrappers, or scented items unattended – Use wildlife-proof bins (Consult Parks Canada’s website to learn how to use wildlife-proof bins).
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Stick to designated trails – It keeps you safe and protects the environment.
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Respect area closure and warning signs.
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Stay alert – Avoid using headphones or ear buds.
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Leave your drone at home. Using drones in most of the Kananaskis region and all Parks Canada places, including Banff National Park, is illegal. Drones disturb wildlife, disrupting their natural behaviour and risking injury.
Wildlife encounters while driving:
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If you see wildlife, slow down, stay in your vehicle, and keep moving.
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Animals are most active around sunrise and sunset, so stay extra alert during those times.
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Watch for wildlife crossing signs – especially in high-traffic animal corridors.
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If you see one animal, expect more – Deer, elk, and other wildlife often travel in herds.
Wildlife Reporting and Encounters
If you experience any close or negative encounters with wildlife – or see any large carnivores – report it:
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In Kananaskis Country, contact Kananaskis Emergency Services: 403-591-7755
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In Banff National Park, call Banff Dispatch: 403-762-1470
In case of emergency, call 911.
For more information and tips:
