Bear and cub spotted in southwest Calgary, police say
Alberta Fish and Wildlife are on scene with tranquilizers and traps
A bear and her cub were spotted along the edge of southwest communities Cedarbrae and Oakridge, Calgary police said Tuesday morning.
Police said the bears were seen throughout Monday night and early Tuesday morning along the western edge of the neighbourhoods, near the border of the Tsuut'ina Nation.
According to a release by Alberta Fish and Wildlife, police received a report that one person had encountered a bear while walking their dog in Oakridge.
The bears have not been sighted since, but officers, with assistance from a HAWCS helicopter, have continued the search.
WATCH | Bear challenges police cruiser
Alberta Fish and Wildlife are also on scene with tranquilizers and traps, police told CBC News.
The area where the bears are believed to be has been contained, with parks and pathways being shutdown.
Specifically, police blocked off the two parking lots and trails at South Glenmore Park.
The type of bear is still unknown at this time, but Alberta Fish and Wildlife says witnesses indicate it may be a grizzly bear with a cub.
People in the area are advised to be cautious and if they do see a bear, to keep their distance.
If residents notice a bear near their home or vehicle, they are urged to stay inside until the animal has left the area, said police.
"We are asking residents in the area to make sure they look out a window into their yard before leaving their house to ensure the animals are not in their path," police said in a news release Tuesday morning.
Saw the mama and her cub, and she bluff charged someone walking down our street at 3:45am. My husband yelled at the bears from the front door and they ran off down the road. Thankfully no injuries. We reported the incident right away and police were quick to come patrol the area.
—@jacquestagg
If you encounter a bear
According to the Government of Alberta, here are safety tips in case one does encounter a bear:
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Do not panic and quickly collect your children and pets and go indoors.
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Notify your nearest Fish and Wildlife office at 310–0000 or 1-800-642-3800.
- Once the bear has left the area, remove anything from your property, like food sources, that might attract a bear. Ask your neighbours to do the same.
- Store garbage in bear-resistant and odour-proof containers or buildings. Only put out your garbage on the day it is going to be collected.
More information on bear safety can be found on the Government of Alberta website.