Residents in the Oakridge community in southwest Calgary were surprised to see a black bear in a tree near an off-leash dog park. The sighting occurred on Monday evening, with Connie Akbari spotting the bear while driving along 90th Avenue. Although wildlife such as coyotes, deer, and bobcats are common in the area, this was the first bear sighting for Akbari. Alberta Fish and Wildlife officers posted signs in the area to alert residents to be cautious while out on nearby trails or in wooded areas.
June Tetz, who was walking her dog in the area, mentioned that she carried bear spray for protection, mainly for encounters with coyotes. Shawn Darcy, another resident, was alerted to the bear sighting through a local community Facebook page and made sure to keep his dogs on a leash to avoid the area where the bear was seen. Akbari expressed gratitude for the awareness being spread about the bear in the neighborhood, emphasizing the importance of being informed and prepared in case of an encounter with wildlife.
Residents were advised to contact Alberta Fish and Wildlife at 1-(800)642-3800 if they encounter a bear or any concerning wildlife. The presence of bears in urban areas like Oakridge is not uncommon, especially due to the proximity of the community to natural conservation areas. This incident serves as a reminder for residents to be vigilant and take necessary precautions when enjoying outdoor activities in areas where wildlife may be present.
The sighting of the black bear sparked discussion among Oakridge residents about the potential encounters with wildlife in the neighborhood. While some residents like Tetz and Darcy were proactive in taking measures to protect themselves and their pets, others expressed surprise at the presence of a bear but acknowledged the need to be aware of wildlife in the area. The community’s proximity to the Weaselhead Conservation area is seen as a contributing factor to the occasional appearance of bears and other wildlife in Oakridge.
The incident also highlighted the importance of wildlife education and awareness in urban areas where human-animal interactions are more likely. With proper information and resources provided by authorities such as Alberta Fish and Wildlife, residents can be better equipped to handle encounters with wildlife in a safe and responsible manner. By reporting sightings and taking preventive measures, residents can help ensure the coexistence of humans and wildlife in communities like Oakridge.
Overall, the bear sighting in Oakridge serves as a reminder for residents to be mindful of their surroundings and take necessary precautions when venturing into natural areas where wildlife may be present. By raising awareness and promoting responsible behavior, communities can foster a harmonious relationship with the local wildlife and contribute to their conservation and protection. The incident also underscores the need for continued efforts in wildlife management and conservation to support the diverse ecosystems that exist in and around urban areas.
