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1
Study Guide For:
Wildlife Awareness Ticket
Construction and Specialized Workers’ Training Society
120-19092 26th Avenue
Surrey, B.C. V3Z 3V7
Phone: 604-538-5101
Toll Free: 1-800-661-3001
Email: [email protected]
2
The information contained in this reference material is distributed as a guide only. It is
current to the best of our knowledge as to the revision date, having been compiled from
sources believed to be reliable and to represent the best current opinion on the subject.
No warranty, guarantee, or representatives are made by the author, as to the absolute
correctness or sufficiency of any representatives contained in this reference material and
the author assumes no responsibility in connection therewith; nor can it be assured that
all acceptable safety measures are contained in this reference material, or that other or
additional measures may not be required in particular or exceptional conditions or
circumstances.
Anyone requiring authoritative information concerning legislation, relations or other legal
requirements relating to industrial health and safety should contact the WorkSafe BC and
other regulatory agencies.
3
INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISTANCE LEARNING—WILDLIFE AWARENESS
Read all the material before attempting the exam. If you have any questions, please call
the Training Plan during normal working hours (Monday to Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
This distance learning course is generic in nature. It will provide you with general
information about wildlife awareness. Your wildlife awareness education begins with this
course and continues with each new job site you work at. You and your employer are
responsible for your continuing education about wildlife awareness, as it pertains to your
location, and how it will affect your scope of work.
Upon successful completion of this course, you should be able to:
• Identify the benefits of wildlife.
• Outline the controls for dealing with wildlife.
• Accurately identify a grizzly bear or a black bear.
o Identify typical bear behaviours.
o Explain how to avoid a bear encounter, or deal with one if it occurs.
o Describe defensive and predatory behaviours.
o Identify where bears may be found.
• Utilize bear spray effectively, and as well, know its proper storage and handling
procedures.
• Explain how to avoid, or deal with, encounters with cougars, wolves, coyotes, foxes
and moose.
4
Importance and Benefits of Wildlife
Importance to people
Canadians typically identify with the wilderness, and nature is used to relax and recharge.
Importance to natural processes
Wildlife maintenance is directly responsible for things like germination, pollination,
predation, pest control, (among many others). These occurrences in nature may not seem
as though they directly influence human life, yet they do. Preserving nature, at its core, is
a balancing act which involves and affects all species in direct correlation with one
another.
Importance to science and medicine
Nature is the default source for countless studies and contemporary pharmaceuticals.
Many medicines derive from plants and fungus found in nature. Additionally, new
research is consistently being done to find new and better pharmaceutical products that
can help extend or alleviate our lives.
Importance to the economy
Tourism, in many ways, is dependent on the preservation of nature. (whether it be in
terms of appreciation for its natural beauty, or for recreational activities such as hunting
or fishing)
Billions of dollars are generated annually from the tourism industry here in Canada from
coast to coast.
5
BEAR ECOLOGY
General Characteristics
• Bears are highly intelligent animals.
• Size, weight and colour can vary between different habitats.
• Bears are intelligent, curious, and have excellent memories.
• Bears can move very fast when they need to (top speeds of up to 60km/h)
• Exhibit learned behaviours.
• Bears have excellent hearing.
• Bears see in colour and have good eyesight.
Diet
• Bears are primarily omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals.
Although they are classified as carnivores (meat-eaters), plant food makes up for
roughly 85-90% of a bear’s diet. Bears also supplement their diet with fish, birds,
insects and meat from mammals for added protein.
• It is important to note, that a bear’s diet changes as the seasons change.
• In the spring, a bear’s diet can include winter-killed carcases.
• Summer food includes thistle, fireweed, bistort, mushrooms, roots, berries, and
spawning fish.
• Fall food may include seasonal fish, moths, white bark pine nuts, ants, animals
rutting.
• There is also an unnatural diet for bears that can be attributed to human
habituation. Bears are adaptive eaters, and anything that provides caloric intake
can be understood as food. These are things like human foods, garbage or garden
plants.
6
Hibernation (Torpor)
• Bears hibernate from October or November until April or May.
• Bears hibernate due to decreased food supply, not because of temperatures.
• Cubs are born during the hibernation period.
• Bears sleep outside in ‘day beds’ from spring through fall.
• Grizzly bears usually excavate their own dens.
• Black bears can wake from denning and roam close to their den in winter months.
• Up to 30% of a bear’s body weight is lost while in hibernation.
• A bear’s hibernation is not considered ‘true’ hibernation, but rather a ‘torpor’. A
torpor can be understood as a state of decreased physiological activity in an
animal, usually by reducing its internal body temperature and metabolic rates. A
torpor enables animals to survive periods with reduced food availability. (As is the
case for bears in Canadian winters)
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Breeding
• Breeding season is mid-May to mid-June, though the mating occurs primarily in
June.
• Cubs are born in January or February while the mother is hibernating.
• Grizzly bears may have 1-2 cubs. Black bears can have up to 4 cubs.
• Grizzly cubs remain with the mother for 3.5 to 4.5 years. Black bear cubs stay with
their mothers for around 1.5 to 2.5 years.
• Females do not breed while they still have cubs.
• In some instances, male bears will kill the cubs of another bear, which sends the
female bear into heat, so that they can then breed with the female.
8
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF BLACK AND GRIZZLY BEARS
Black Bears
• A black bear can be black, brown, blonde, cinnamon, or rust coloured.
• Colouration of black, with a light brown snout, is the most common type found.
• The face is straight, and the muzzle is elongated.
• The ears may be long or prominent.
• A black bear’s rump is usually higher than its front shoulders.
• No shoulder hump.
• Black bear height ranges from 75-100cm (29-39 inches) at the shoulders when on
all fours, and 150cm (59 inches) when standing.
• A black bears weight ranges from 45-140 kilograms. (99 – 308 pounds)
• Males are larger than females.
• Black bear paws are good for climbing.
• Dark claws protruding 3-5 cm (1.2 – 2 inches) in length beyond the paw.
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Grizzly Bears
Grizzly bear colouring varies from blonde to black.
• Pronounced shoulder hump – highest point when on all fours.
• Small round ears wide apart.
• Long, lighter coloured claws ranging from 7-10cm (2.8 – 3.9 inches), protruding
from the paw and slightly curved.
• A dished (rounded) profile between the eyes and end of snout distinguishes
grizzlies from black bears.
• The average weight of a male grizzly bear is 225kg (496 pounds). With some adult
males weighing as much as 400kg (882 pounds). Female grizzlies tend to be
somewhat smaller, averaging roughly 170kg. (375 pounds) in size.
• Grizzlies have a shoulder hump that is a mass of muscle for digging purposes.
10
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
Hierarchy of Controls
The hierarchy of controls must be used when the risk to the workers health and safety
cannot be eliminated. Personal protective equipment, such as bear spray, shall be carried
as a last line of defense when proactive controls have been implemented and do not
provide enough risk reduction. PPE should be used as part of an integrated organizational
approach to health and safety management. It should complement other control methods,
not replace them
Site Controls
Attitude/Behaviour Controls
Encounter/PPE Controls
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Site Controls
Some examples of site controls are:
• Wildlife-proof garbage cans.
• Outdoor garbage needs to be wildlife-resistant and must be used properly.
• Close lunchroom doors/windows when not in use.
• Avoid attracting smaller animals to a site, as this can attract predators.
• Keep perimeter clear of brush and tall vegetation so animals can’t hide in proximity
to you.
• Use of motion sensitive lights.
• Take precaution so that animals aren’t attracted to the ‘site’.
Attitude/Behavioural Controls
Some examples of site controls are:
• Don’t wear headphones if working outdoors in the bush.
• Outdoor workers should consider carrying a whistle or airhorn.
• Avoid surprising the animal. Make noise when travelling.
• Be extra careful when travelling near running water.
• Know the wind direction. Travel downward when possible.
Encounter/PPE Controls
Some examples of site controls are:
• Bear spray is PPE and should only be used as a last line of defense.
• Workers using encounter controls such as bear spray, bear bells or a bear horn,
workers must be trained in their proper use and handling.
• Don’t get between a mother and her young.
• If you stumble across a potential food source (dead animal) leave the area.
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Other things to keep in mind:
Do not ever feed bears as this can cause ‘food conditioning’, when an animal
associates humans or human buildings/properties with an easy meal. Animal control
officers are quick to contain the threat of a food conditioned animal. In many cases having
to destroy the animal as a result. Remember the phrase; ‘a fed bear is a dead bear.’
13
BEHAVIOURAL TENDENCIES
Black Bear Behaviour
• Active mainly between dawn and dusk.
• Are excellent tree climbers.
• Den in open spaces, under rocks and roots at low to middle
elevation.
Grizzly Bear Behaviour
• Grizzly bears are most active during dawn and dusk.
• Grizzlies are typically more aggressive than black bears.
• Females will aggressively protect their cubs.
• Grizzly bears tend to excavate their own dens, often on
moderate to steep slopes.
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DOMINANCE HIERARCHIES
Bears are typically solitary animals, but can be social, and some bears will be more
dominant than others. This is especially true during mating periods or around abundant
food sources. Dominant or defensive behaviour is typically used to establish hierarchies.
Dominant or Defensive Behaviours Include:
• Standing on hind legs
• Direct eye contact
• Jaw-popping
• Huffing
• Ground Swatting
• Charging
o This is considered ritual posturing and is designed to avoid physical
confrontation.
15
BEAR TRACKS
Bear tracks typically show five toes for both black and grizzly bears and may also show
claw indentations.
• The print of the big toe is on the outside of the bear’s foot
A noted difference between a black bear track and a grizzly bear track is that the claw
marks appear closer to the pads of the foot for a black bear than for a grizzly
• Black bears’ front tracks can be discerned by looking to see if the fifth print sits
below the remaining 4 prints of the indentation. For grizzly bears, all 5 toe prints
will sit adjacent to one another in sequence.
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How to identify:
1. Find the lowest point of outside (largest) toe
2. Find the highest point on front edge of palm pad
3. Connect points 1 and 2; extend this line to the inside of the track.
• If more than 50% of the inside (smallest) toe is above the line, the track is from a
grizzly.If more than 50% of the inside (smallest) toe is below the line, the track is
from a black bear
Bear/Human Encounters
Most bears are shy and will usually flee from people. Aggressive confrontations though
can occur when bears are surprised (especially females with cubs) and at close range
encounters.
Bears that have become dependent or accustomed to garbage and human food for caloric
intake may also become more aggressive and impetuous. Bear reactions to a human
encounter can also be influenced by the season, hunger or individual temperament.
Black bears are often more human tolerant than grizzlies because they live in closer
proximity to humans. Black bears tend to be less aggressive and prefer forested areas.
Grizzlies on the other hand, have been known to be more aggressive and prefer open
ground.
Bear Around Work Sites
• Be sure that all food inside a building is secured and contained.
• Store all garbage in bearproof containers
• Never feed the wildlife, or remain in proximity to watch, photograph or pet an
animal.
• Camp locations should be situated:
o On clearings a good distance between facilities and forest cover.
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o Adjacent to industrial locations.
o In a manner offering maximum sightlines to allow workers to see bears
approaching.
• Camp locations should not be located along creeks, lakeshores, rivers or beside
wildlife travel lanes.
• In its search for food, a bear may enter a camp. Do not allow a bear to become
habituated, as learned behaviour can be a threat. If there are no negative
experiences felt by the bear after an encounter, it will repeat the behaviour.
o Set boundaries for bears.
o Do not let the bears feel comfortable.
o Ensure the bears cannot access human food or garbage. Never leave it in
vehicles.
• Report bear sightings so that there can be a response plan initiated.
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INDICATIONS OF BEARS IN THE AREA
If possible, always try to avoid areas that bears tend to frequent, to help minimize a
chance of an encounter.
• Bears tend to traverse along a waters edge, on ridges, game trails, and will often
travel the same locations habitually. (Though specific locations change by the
season)
• Watch for assured signs that a bear was recently in the area. Signs such as:
Tracks, droppings/scat, claw marks or stripped bark on trees, upturned earth or
other visible trails.
• Watch for a carcass of big game, as bears will typically roam a close distance
away. Additionally, watch for scavenger birds like crows, magpies or ravens, as
this too could be an indication there is a dead animal in proximity.
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Working in bear country
• When working in an area where you know bears tend to roam, always tell someone
from your group where you are going and when you expect to return. If possible,
ensure one worker is designated as a lookout.
• Avoid carrying foods that have a strong smell, and always carry food in airtight or
bear proof containers.
• Try to avoid items that have strong artificial smells such as cologne or perfumes.
• Bears have been known to be able to smell blood from great distances.
o Open cuts should be bandaged completely.
o Contrary to popular belief however, menstruating women do not need to be
extra cautious, or avoid bear territory all together, as this myth has long
since been debunked.
• Always bring a means of two-way communication.
• If the wind is blowing from behind you (downwind), a bear will likely smell you and
notice your presence, leaving before you reach it. Ideally you would be better
served travelling downwind, as this is safer.
o However, circumstances may necessitate you go upwind to get to your
location.
• It is important to remember when travelling with the wind in your face (upwind), a
bear may not smell you coming, and can lead to a surprise encounter.
• If travelling in an area with strong winds, keep note that a bear might not be able
to hear you coming either, which can also lead to a surprise encounter.
• If you’re carrying food on you, make sure it is in an airtight resealable container.
Hang food in a tree 4 meters above the ground, and 2 meters out from the trunk.
• Remember: Wildlife mitigation strategies include removing or managing
attractants, educating yourself to your surroundings and the situation and applying
aversion techniques in case of encounter.
20
BEAR MANAGEMENT
Bear Sightings
If you happen to see a bear from a distance:
• Its best to wait until the bear has moved from your expected path before getting
any closer. One can also make a wide detour, to avoid the area altogether. In terms
of any approach, always leave the bear with an appropriate route of escape that
doesn’t involve it moving back in your direction.
• It is important to note, however, that there is no guaranteed life-saving method you
can use to cope with an aggressive bear.
o Keeping calm though has proven to be the most successful method. If a
bear has seen you, speak as calmly as you can, and back away slowly.
o Set whatever you might be carrying down on the ground, as a bear may be
more interested in what you are carrying than you. (Especially if you are
carrying food)
o A scream or sudden movement may trigger an immediate reaction from the
bear.
Bear Body Language
When encountering a bear, understanding the body language of a bear can be helpful.
• A bear standing on its hind legs, contrary to popular belief, is not necessarily an
aggressive posture.
• If a bear starts swinging its head from one direction to the other, it is typically
looking for a way out of that situation.
• Charges are often used as a test for the bear to see your threat level. Often the
bear will veer off, run past you, or stop short.
• If a bear feels trapped or is agitated it will often charge
21
• If a bear charges and knocks you down, then it is likely the bear is just trying to
remove the looming threat.
Do not ever turn your back or run from a bear, as running may trigger a chase.
Simply back away slowly.
22
TYPES OF BEAR BEHAVIOURS AND REACTIONS
There are typically 2 behavioural tendencies that are demonstrated by bears, and they
can be categorized as:
• Defensive behaviour
• Non-defensive behaviour.
Predatory attacks typically stem from bears demonstrating non-defensive behaviour.
However, defensive attacks can occur. If they escalate beyond the point of the bear
establishing you aren’t a threat, and become persistent, this could be rendered as a
predatory attack and you must be aware of how to change your approach in order to
handle the new situation at hand.
Defensive behaviour
When displaying defensive behaviour, the bear is showing signs of stress and feeling
threatened.
• Usual signs include:
o Ears back
o Swaying of the head
o Swatting the ground
o Changes in body posture
o Vocalization (teeth popping, huffing)
o Bluff charge.
How to react to a defensive encounter:
• Keep calm and talk softly to the bear.
• Do not run.
• If you are with other people, group together to appear large.
23
• Prepare your deterrent in case the situation escalates. If the bear charges, use
your deterrent.
Defensive encounters can escalate into an attack, and you must be mindful of this.
However, a defensive attack is typically intended to stop a threat, not to kill it. Most
defensive attacks are short and stop once the bear realizes you are no longer a threat. If
the attack persists, it may have escalated from defensive to predatory.
If the bear charges and it is evident that it is a defensive attack, the target should then lie
face down on the ground (play dead). It is important to note, however, that this should be
done the moment just before contact. Playing dead too early may encourage the bear to
attack.
Playing dead
1. Curl up into a ball or lay flat on your stomach, with your hands cupped around your
neck to protect it, and your elbows out. (Protecting the arteries in your neck while
sticking your elbows out make it harder for a bear to roll you over)
2. If you’re still wearing a backpack, keep it on for additional protection from the
attack.
3. Be silent while you lay still, as it’s a sign of submission.
4. If the bear tries to roll you over, try and roll back onto your stomach to protect your
vital organs as fast as possible.
5. Bears that are attacking due to defense behaviour, will usually stop once they
assess you are not a threat.
6. If the bear starts biting or swiping at you violently, you need to fight back, and fight
for your life. Try and turn back onto your front and fight the bear off with anything
at your disposal. (fists, rocks, sticks)
• We talk more about differentiating between types of attacks in the course-reading
ahead.
7. After an attack, (even if it takes 30 minutes or more) do not get up until you are
sure the bear is out of the area.
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Non-defensive behaviour
Bears that approach you showing no signs of stress are in general exhibiting non-defensive behaviour. These bears are in many cases just curious, food conditioned or
human habituated. Yet there is still a chance of predatory attacks, and you must be aware
of this fact.
Reactions to non-defensive behaviour
If a bear comes to within roughly 10 meters of your position, and shows no signs of
leaving, it is important to not appear submissive.
• Remain facing the bear and do not run.
• Prepare your deterrent in case the situation escalates. If within range of the bear,
use your deterrent
• Make direct eye contact
• If the bear comes closer, get loud and act aggressively.
• Pick up a rock or stick to use as a weapon.
• Make yourself appear as large as possible. Stand on something near you or open
your coat.
In most cases this will deter the bear, but if it doesn’t, you are likely dealing with a
predatory attack.
Predatory Attacks
A predatory attack is one in which the bear is intending on making you its prey.
• Predatory attacks usually come from younger bears.
• Predatory bears will likely not give off any verbal or vocalized warning signals
(Huffing, swiping at the ground, popping teeth, bluff charging) during a predatory
attack.
25
• A bear’s ears will be erect and forward during a predatory attack. As opposed to
their ears being laid back as is typically the case.
• Predatory bears will be visually locked onto their target and keep bearing in on
you.
Reactions to predatory attacks
• Continue to use your bear spray, even at close range.
• Adopt a dominant stance, and act in a defiant manner.
• If you are in a position where you must fight off the bear in a predatory attack, try
to remain on your back so
that you can still use your
arms to protect you, and to
fight.
• Hit the bear with anything you
can find and aim for the eyes
and nose.
• Playing dead is not a good
strategy in a predatory attack. Its worth noting, predatory bears rarely kill their
victims before beginning to eat them.
Climbing a tree is not advised as a means of escape, as black bears especially are
incredible climbers. Contrary to popular belief, grizzlies too are capable of climbing tress,
and can do so with much more proficiency and speed than humans.
• However, if climbing a tree is your only means of escape, climb as fast and as high
as you can.
• While initially playing dead, if an attack becomes predatory that you had originally
assumed was defensive in nature, do not continue to play dead.
26
BEAR SPRAY
Carrying bear spray can potentially offer protection from a bear attack. Studies have
shown that using bear spray is twice as effective in a bear encounter as a gun is.
• Read instructions thoroughly and practice disbursement procedure of the spray.
o A 180-gram container will reach upward of 10 meters (32 feet).
o A 55-gram container will reach 3 meters (9 feet).
o A 30-gram container will reach 2.5 meters (8 feet).
• Always carry bear spray in a way that it will be readily available to you. Preferably
in a holster or on your belt or pack (not in your pack).
• Hold your breath while deploying.
• If the attack is interrupted, retreat slowly while facing the bear. Do not run, and do
not turn your back. As the bear leaves, go a different direction.
To Deploy Bear Spray:
1. Remove safety clip.
2. Steady your arm and depress trigger with thumb.
• Deploy in 2-3 second bursts.
• On average, a container holds about 8 seconds of use.
3. Spray directly into the bear’s face.
4. Avoid using the entire content of the bear spray in one burst, you may waste or run
out when you need another shot of it.
27
Distances (Bear Spray)
• At 9 to 15 meters (29-49 feet) from the bear, fire a warning blast. • At 6 to 9 meters (19-29 feet) from the bear, fire a 2-3 second blast in continuous
succession.
• At 0 to 6 meters (0-19 feet) from the bear, again fire a 2-3 second blast in continuous succession.
Things to Keep Note of with Bear Spray:
• Always check the expiry date.
• Be sure it has a safety clip.
• Ensure it says ‘bear spray’ or ‘bear repellent’ on the label, and only use the spray
when encountering the animal. Do not just spray it on your clothes or tent hoping
that it will repel a bear, as it could in fact have the opposite effect, potentially
attracting bears to your location.
• Check the size and strength.
o A single 225ml can represents about 8-10 total seconds of spray.
28
o 0.75-1% capsaicin (the active ingredient). You are unlikely to find one higher
than 2%.
• Always try and account for the wind direction and speed, as these factors can
drastically affect the effectiveness of the bear spray.
• If accidentally exposed:
o Remove contact lenses.
o Remove affected clothing as soon as practicable.
o Wash all affected areas with cold water.
o Take short shallow breaths to avoid breathing in the spray.
o Relief from symptoms of exposure may take anywhere from 15 minutes to
over an hour.
Storage/Transportation (Bear Spray)
• Always keep the safety clip on.
• Do not crush or puncture the cannister.
o Bear spray is explosive, and some types are extremely flammable.
• If transported in a vehicle, be sure that it is in a fully sealed, enclosed container.
• There are specific bear spray safety containers on the market. (as shown below)
The “Bear Spray Safety Container” protects against accidental impact that could damage
or discharge your Bear Spray canister. A necessity for those using bear spray in the field,
during transport, or for anyone looking to ensure safe handling of bear spray. This
container comprises of an absorbent foam lining the inside to protect your bear spray and
absorb any accidental discharge which may occur.
29
• Never store in a vehicle, as temperatures can get very hot or very cold. Always be
aware of storage temperatures, and don’t carry or use bear spray you suspect has
been frozen.
• In transport, don’t place near vents or heat sources, as
the changing ambient air temperatures can potentially
trigger the can to deploy or explode. Especially if exposed
to rapid temperature changes in quick succession.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Practice (Bear Spray)
Prior to using the spray out in the field, (for potentially the first time on a live bear) a person
should practice unholstering and deploying bear spray with an expired or inert canister.
• Never practice at camp, as residual spray can have the opposite effect and attract
bears.
• Always mark practice canisters as ‘used’.
• Its good practice to bring new canisters into bear country, never used ones.
30
BEAR ENCOUNTERS
There are many techniques that can be used to deal with problem bears, ideally using
non-lethal aversion methods. Non-lethal methods include: Capture and release (including
baited traps), darting/chemical immobilization, a catch pole, electric fencing or relocation
of the bear.
• Capture and release tactics include the use of a baited trap. It is worth noting
though that bears are adaptive and can become ‘trap-shy’, where they exhibit
learned behaviours of avoidance.
• Darting/chemical immobilization is administered with the use of a gun, jab-pole,
blowpipe or direct injection.
• A catch pole is typically used to corral young cubs under 16km in weight. A catch
pole can never be used on the neck alone, but rather must be looped around the
neck and one shoulder. (A catch pole can be combined with darting)
• Captured bears are often relocated, but in many cases, if the attractants remain, it
is likely that another bear will come into that zone.
• Scare tactics are also forms of non-lethal control tactics. Scare tactics include:
o Noise makers
o Bear spray
o Pyrotechnics
o Rubber bullets/paintballs.
If aversion methods prove to be non-effective, euthanasia (destruction of the animal) may
be necessary. Euthanasian/destruction will be done in instances where the bear poses
an immediate danger to humans, suffered life-threatening injuries, is identified as a
problem bear or where all other methods have failed.
31
OTHER WILDLIFE
While bears are the primary area of concern for this course, other wildlife co-exists with
workers and must be acknowledged.
• Do not allow any wild animal to become human habituated. If you see wildlife,
make sure to report all sightings and encounters as per site rules.
• Never approach any wildlife and be mindful to manage food and garbage.
Other Species of Concern:
• Cougars (also referred to as a mountain lion, puma or catamount)
• Wolves
• Coyotes
• Foxes
• Moose
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COUGARS
Cougars are predators that primarily hunt deer, moose, elk, sheep and other small
animals.
• Sightings are rare, and cougar attacks are very rare.
• Cougars are active during the day, but typically wait until dark to enter human
inhabited areas. Mostly found in remote wooded or rocky areas.
• Cougars do not have a specific season that they breed in, and kittens typically stay
with their mothers for about a year.
Cougar Encounters
Precautions:
• Carry bear spray and be prepared
to use it if a cougar comes to within
12 meters (40 feet)
If you see a cougar: Do not turn your back or attempt to run, slowly and
cautiously back away and leave the area.
If a Cougar Attacks:
• Show that you are not easy pray. Look big and speak loudly.
• Fight back. Never play dead with a cougar.
• If you get knocked down, immediately get back up
• Attempt to fight the cougar off with anything at your disposal (rocks, fists, sticks),
and aim for the face.
33
WOLVES
Wolves are predators that hunt deer, elk, moose, caribou or other small mammals.
• Wolves travel in packs of 2-20.
• Mate in February or March, and females retire to the dens in May.
• Generally restricted to wooded areas.
Wolf Encounters
Precautions:
• Carry bear spray and be ready to use
it.
If you see a wolf:
• Do not turn your back or attempt to
run.
• Wolves usually travel in packs, be aware there may be more.
If a wolf approaches in a threatening manner or attacks:
• Do not make eye contact or show your teeth, which is seen as an act of
aggression.
• Travel perpendicular to the wolf, its pack might be right behind you.
• Climb a tree if one is nearby.
• If attacked, protect your face and throat by using your forearm.
• Show that you are not easy pray. Look big and speak loudly.
34
COYOTES
Coyotes are opportunistic hunters, feeding on hares, insects, mice or other small vermin.
• Solitary in summer, form packs in winter.
• Most active between dawn and dusk.
• Highly adaptable.
• Appearance varies between a grey and reddish coat, with long ears, a slender
pointed muzzle and a bushy tail. Coyotes typically weigh between 10-23kg
Coyote encounters
Precautions:
• Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it.
If you see a coyote:
• If you can, make the coyote as uneasy as
possible to dissuade the coyote from human
habituation.
If a coyote approaches in a threatening manner:
• Throw rocks, sticks or other objects at it.
• Try to make yourself as large as you can.
• Shout in a deep voice and maintain eye contact
• Do not turn your back or attempt to run.
• If you have it, and feel the need, use your bear spray.
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FOXES
Foxes are omnivores, and tend to feed on small mammals, birds, fruit, insects and
whatever else they can scavenge.
• Most active during the early hours after dark and at dawn.
• Highly adaptable and found in many areas.
• Mate in March and the pups are born in May in litters of 4-9.
• The family units hunt together until fall and then split up.
Appearance:
• Slim.
• Long pointed nose.
• Usually Red or silver.
• Long fluffy white tipped tail.
• About 5kg.
Precautions:
• Foxes are typically wary and unlikely to approach humans.
If you see a fox:
• Like any animal, if you see a fox, leave it an escape route. (Try not to corner the
animal)
Fox Encounter
If a fox approaches in a threatening manner:
• Show that you are not easy pray. Look big, speak loudly in a deep voice and
maintain eye contact.
• If you see a fox in an enclosed space, give it an escape route and stand back.
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MOOSE
Moose are not natural predators.
• Moose are most aggressive during Spring and Fall. (Calving and Rutting seasons
respectively)
• Most active in the early hours of the morning.
• Moose have poor vision, but an excellent sense of smell and hearing.
• Rut in early September to October, calves born the following spring.
Appearance:
• Bulls (males) have broad palm like antlers, and average 350-450kg.
Moose Encounter
A moose encounter can be just as dangerous as a bear encounter.
• As is the case with other animals, make a lot of noise while travelling to warn the
animal you are nearby.
If you see a moose:
• Try and maintain at least 100m between you and the moose.
• If it remains stationary, move away from it cautiously.
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• Ears forward and erect means it is alert. Ears back and down means it is
aggressive.
• Make certain that a moose has a route of escape
If a moose attack occurs, or it approaches in a threatening way:
• Walking quickly or running away when safe to do so will likely prevent a sustained
attack.
• A moose could charge if it feels threatened or backed into a corner.
• If necessary, you can climb a tree to get to safety, but do not come down until you
are sure the moose has left the area.
If you come across any form of wildlife on a jobsite, be sure to report it as per site-specific rules.