Stock image of a black bear. (Photo 122955566 © Svetlana Foote | Dreamstime.com)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

a seemingly pawsitive outcome

Bear believed moved on from Red Deer’s Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary

May 10, 2023 | 10:20 AM

Red Deer’s Kerry Wood Nature Centre, along with Alberta Fish and Wildlife, have deemed that a black bear seen in the Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary, has found its bearings and likely moved on.

In a Facebook post Tuesday afternoon, the Nature Centre said the following:

“We have made the decision to reopen the four-kilometre Wishart trail. In all likelihood, the bear has moved on, and is looking for a bigger, more abundant space. We would like to thank everybody for keeping their distance, and giving the bear its space. We would also like to thank the bear for being a very well-behaved bear, not tearing up the neighbours’ gardens and garbage cans, and leaving people alone.”

The trail had been announced closed on May 4 after a confirmed sighting in the sanctuary that morning, and unconfirmed sightings in other park nodes (Heritage Ranch, Maskepetoon Park) in the days and weeks prior.

The public was urged to not try and come see the bear as that would only cause more problems for humans and the bear itself.

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A trap for the purpose of relocation was considered, but authorities wanted to give the bear the opportunity to move on without intervention.

Wherever the ursus has gone, hopefully it has the bare necessities.

If you do see a bear in the city, call Alberta Fish and Wildlife at 310-0000, or 1-800-642-3800 after hours.