Even though there has been a number of rumoured sightings of wildlife in and around Cochrane according to social media, very few have been reported.

According to Ina Lucila, Communications Advisor for Alberta Justice and Solicitor General, only the occasional report of black bear sightings have come in. "Fish and wildlife officers have received reports of occasional sightings of a black bear on the south side of Cochrane.  The bear has been feeding on natural food sources, doesn’t show aggression towards people and leaves when people show up. The bear is not showing signs of habituation and is not a public safety concern at this point."

No reports of cougars or wolves have been reported to Fish and Wildlife, but Lucila encourages people to call in. "If people encounter a bear or other wildlife that may be a public safety concern, we ask that they report the incident to the 24-hour Report A Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800."

As far as ways in which people can protect themselves, especially when it comes to bears, Lucila has some recommendations:

  • Store garbage in bear-resistant and odour-proof containers or buildings.
  • Clean up or remove any possible attractants as soon as possible to avoid habituation of wildlife.
  • Home and business owners are encouraged to keep doors and windows secure from wildlife entering them. Keep garage doors, front doors and any other door that can be accessed by wildlife closed.
  • Do not leave pet food outside.           
  • Clean barbecues after each use and keep barbecues in a bear-resistant structure if possible.

If you would like more information on keeping yourself safe or how to reduce negative human-wildlife interactions, check out the Alberta Bear Smart Program or the WildSmart website.