The black bear attempting to access food from a garbage bin in Waterton. (Parks Canada)

By David Opinko/Lethbridge News Now

Irresponsible human behaviour leads to young bear being euthanized in Waterton

Jul 23, 2020 | 2:52 PM

WATERTON, AB – Officials at Parks Canada are urging people to clean up after themselves and put their waste into garbage bins.

On Friday, July 10, they received reports that a food-conditioned black bear bit into unattended backpacks and made contact with a tent while occupants were inside. As a result, trails and backcountry campgrounds in Waterton’s Bauerman Valley were closed.

A few days after the closures were enacted, a black bear ripped an unoccupied tent set up by Parks Canada team members.

They then heard about and captured video of a young black bear obtaining garbage and other attractants at the Red Rock Canyon Day Use Area, which can be seen below.

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“The bear entered the busy day use area looking for garbage and leaned on a vehicle with people in it. Parks Canada is confident this was the same bear between incidents at the backcountry campground and the day use area parking lot,” reads a statement from Parks Canada.

“Unfortunately, due to the black bear’s excessive level of habituation, food-conditioning, and that it presented a risk to public safety, Parks Canada wildlife experts had to euthanize the animal on the afternoon of July 20, 2020.”

This action was taken after considering all other options for keeping the animal on the landscape.

“Parks Canada team members work diligently to prevent this type of unfortunate situation by educating park visitors and residents, providing bear-proof food garbage bins and food storage facilities, researching and monitoring wildlife, and engaging in compliance and enforcement efforts. Parks Canada continues to monitor wildlife activity in the area, to ensure the safety of visitors, residents, and wildlife.”

Officials say observing wildlife in their natural habitat is a privilege that comes with a responsibility to treat wildlife with the respect they deserve.

Black bears have learned how to exist in proximity to humans in Waterton Lakes National Park.

Team members have observed several instances lately of garbage being left out at picnic area, along trails, and sitting next to waste bins.

“We would appreciate your support in informing the public that bears are active on the landscape and to remind all visitors and backcountry campers in Waterton Lakes National Park to stay alert, keep food and garbage secure, never feed wildlife, dispose of garbage in the containers provided or take it home, give wildlife space, and respect all warnings and closures. “

Visitors are encouraged to report bear sightings and all unsecured food or garbage immediately to Parks Canada Dispatch at 1-888-927-2267.