The 2017 calendar year is already one-third of the way over, and that means that the weather is improving with each day.

As the weather gets nicer, black bears and other predators, especially young ones, frequently move around to establish new territory and look for food.  This is normal behaviour for wildlife, but it can cause challenges for humans.

Wildlife in Saskatchewan is breathtaking, but can be sometimes difficult to witness it safely with the environment for the animals. All citizens that are looking to travel through Saskatchewan's wildlife areas are reminded to take the the necessary safety precautions when outdoors.

If you or a group of people encounter a bear, cougar or some other predator, keep your distance and do not try to scare the animal away or handle the situation yourself. Anyone who finds themselves in a potentially dangerous situation with a bear or other predator should contact their local conservation officer or call the 24-hour Turn In Poachers line at-1-800-667-7561 or from your cell at #5555.

Most bears are cautious around humans.  They rarely charge or chase a human.

If you encounter a bear, here is a list of tips that will help you:

  • Stay calm – don’t run.
  • Make a wide detour, calmly back away, speak in low tones, and don’t look directly at the bear.
  • Never feed or approach a bear or cubs.
  • Move toward a tree or rock.
  • As a last resort, drop articles to distract the bear.
  • In most cases, black bears will threaten but not attack.
  • If attacked – defend yourself – do not play dead.

If you encounter a cougar:

  • Stay calm – don’t run.
  • Make sure the cougar knows you are not potential prey – stand up, make yourself appear as large as possible, shout loudly and throw something to distract the animal.
  • Back away to a safe distance while maintaining eye contact with the cougar.
  • If a cougar does make contact, fight back.  Use any weapon that you can and don’t give up.
  • Never play dead with a cougar.
  • After the cougar has left, keep watching for it until you reach a place of safety.

Stay safe outside, and take in as much as you can of the beauitful sights that Saskatchewan has to offer.