Residents are being asked to keep their distance from a culvert trap set up after a black bear was spotted on Snake Hill on Sunday.
A resident spotted the bear near a garbage can on the east side of the popular recreation area.
Sundre-Olds Fish and Wildlife officer Mark Hoskin says the trap is a danger zone because a cub may go into the trap and the mother bear would then stay in the immediate area.
“Do not approach that trap or any bear trap at any time of year,” he said.
After the animal was spotted, RCMP and Fish and Wildlife officers conducted a search for the bear but it was not found. A bear did leave claw marks on at least one nearby tree.
“The bear was not exhibiting any aggressive behaviour when it was spotted by the resident,” he said.
The Snake Hill Park has not been closed except for the area right around the trap, which has been marked off with do-not-cross tape.
Hoskin says the bruin may have been attracted to the area by the garbage can or the heavy berry crop on the hill right now. Other bears may also have come into the area.
Anyone planning to spend time on Snake Hill is advised to keep dogs on leashes, walk in large groups and make lots of noise.
Mountain View BearSmart offers the following advice about avoiding bear encounters:
• When hiking, keep an eye for signs of bears (tracks, droppings), travel with others and make noise as you move through wooded areas to alert bears to your presence.
• Put any food you are carrying in sealed containers in your backpack.
• If you are biking in bear habitat, choose trails that are clear with long sightlines. Bikers are encouraged to avoid berry patches in the fall as bears are quite active.
• When walking your dog, keep it close by and under control. Uncontrolled or off-leash dogs may lead a bear to you.
• Avoid backcountry camping near berry patches and always let people know where you are going and how long you plan to be gone. Travel with bear spray in bear habitat and know how to use it.
Anyone spotting any bear on Snake Hill or elsewhere in town is asked to call 1-800-642-3800. If the bear is an immediate public safety hazard, call 911.
