Wildlife expert says animal encounters a risk as visitors return to Alberta parks

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, animals have become more bold and comfortable on roadways and paths and now, one expert is warning those visiting Alberta'srecreational areas to be alert when out hiking or camping.

In March, the province temporarily suspended vehicle access to its parks and recreational areas.

Along with Alberta's plans to restart the economy and slowly open upin May, access to parks was restored though there are still limited services,like access to bathrooms.

Animals need to get used to people

With more human activity coming into parks, Nick De Ruyter, Wild Smart Program Director at the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley sayshe's concerned.

"Wildlife has been on the roads and on these well-travelled trails more so they're going to have to get used to seeing people again because it's been quiet for two months but really the concerning thing for me is that I want to make sure people are prepared for encounters," saysDe Ruyter.

In Canmore, Stuart McKelvie says although seeing wildlife isn't new, inMarch he did get a surprise through his window.

"The first or second week of lockdown I woke up one morning, walked out my bedroom window and right here literally looking straight through a window right at me it was an elk," McKelvie said. "Right in my front yard."

He snapped a picture that went wild on social media.

McKelvie said through the pandemic he's noticed animals travelling in bigger groups. He hopes this whole experience will help people see the importance of co-existing with wildlife.

Physical distancing rules for animals

De Ruyter says it's calving season for elk right now andbears may be out and about with their cubs. So it's even more important to prepare before heading out on a hike with bear spray and by making enough noise to keep wildlife away.

He's advising against planning big hiking trips outside of your own familyor those you are isolating with.

Physical distance between humans should be at least two metres but De Ruyter said animals need distance too.

If you see deer or elk, he recommends three school bus lengths, and for carnivores like bears, cougars or wolves it's best to stay 100 metres away.

Bathroom access has been limited in most areas, so De Ruyter says hikers should prepare to pack out what they pack in and don't leave garbage or human waste behind because those too could attract animals to trails and busy areas.

De Ruytersays it likely won't take long for the animals to figure out things are changing yet again.

"One thing I will say about the wildlife is that they're very quick at adapting and so as soon as all the people start coming back on the trails I think they'll quickly go back to their old ways."