Whether you’re backcountry camping, geocaching in a suburban park or hiking through a national park, these tips can help keep you, your family and the wildlife safe!
Eighty-nine percent of Canadian adults participate in at least one of 30 common nature-based activities according to the 2012 Canadian Nature Survey. That means a lot of people in natural areas – be it urban green spaces, remote wilderness and everything in between. These general tips can help keep people, pets and wildlife safe. Always check for local information on species in the area, bylaws, restrictions, etc., when visiting a new natural area. No matter what activities you’re participating in, remember to take nothing and leave nothing.
Do not take any food into your tent – even snacks.
Keep food in bear-safe / animal-safe storage sites and containers away from latrine and sleeping sites. If storage facilities are not provided on a campsite hang your food in a bear-safe container from a high tree away from latrine and sleeping sites.
Keep the fire pit clean and free of fallen or spilled food.
Anything related to food can attract bears and other wildlife, such as table cloths, condiments, cutlery, empty cans or containers, etc.
Consider cooking in different clothes than you sleep – those smells can linger and could be stored in a scent-proof bag outside of your tent.
General Campsite:
Talk to park rangers, visitor centre attendees, or look online to find out what local restrictions are in place – and follow them.
Make sure you know what wild visitors you may have and take appropriate steps to mitigate and prevent possible conflict.
Keep pets on leash; it is documented that off-leash dogs will harass (intentionally or otherwise) bears and draw them back to people, as well as the fact that in media-reported dog-coyote conflict dogs were off leash more than 90% of the time. You can use an anchor line or umbilical-style leash to give your pooch a bit more freedom.
Keeping the campsite clean of all anthropocentric (human-based) litter will go a long way in reducing conflict while you’re at the site, as well as once you’ve left.
Make noise. Human sounds in the wild are one of the best defences against creating conflict with wildlife as most animals in natural areas will avoid people.
Always make noise while walking; bear bells may not be enough. Human sounds – such as talking – are the best way to let wildlife know you’re around.
Keep pets on leash; it is documented that off-leash dogs will harass (intentionally or otherwise) bears and draw them back to people, as well as the fact that in media-reported dog-coyote conflict dogs were off leash more than 90% of the time. You can use an umbilical-style long leash to give your pooch a bit more freedom.
Always let people know your plans (where you’re going and when you expect to be back) and carry an appropriately sized first aid kit in your pack or on your person.
Avoid using headphones or earbuds as they limit your ability to be situationally aware.
Be aware of your surroundings. Before pausing to watch or observe wildlife (including birds) take a look around to establish if you’re near an attractant or there are wildlife present. If possible, have someone with you who can be aware while you focus on a subject.
Always make noise while walking; bear bells may not be enough. Human sounds – such as talking – are the best way to let wildlife know you’re around.
Avoid using headphones or earbuds as they limit your ability to be situationally aware.
