Wildlife
Bears, cougars, wolves, seals, sealions, birds and other small mammals may visit the seashore. Habituation and food conditioning are two of the leading factors that changes the behavior of wildlife. Your actions could change an animal’s life!
Examples of human behaviors leading to habituation include:
Seeking out or attempting to prolong sightings or interactions with wildlife, and not maintaining healthy boundaries (space) when encountering wildlife.
Examples of human behaviors leading to food conditioning include:
Direct feeding, indirect methods (such as leaving food or garbage unsecured or unattended during your visit), and allowing dogs to roam beaches and trails off-leash.
How to be CoastSmart
- Predators may be in the area at any time – be alert!
- Respect “wildlife warning” signs. Do not enter closed areas.
- Keep your dog on a leash at all times.
- Never allow wildlife access to food, garbage, toiletries, or coolers.
- Avoid hiking alone, especially at dawn, dusk, or night.
- Keep children close; discuss bear, cougar, and wolf safety.
- Carry deterrents: walking stick, air horn and/or pepper spray (know how to use it, test it, check expiry date).
- Follow marine mammal and seabird viewing guidelines.
- Report any bear, wolf or cougar sightings to the appropriate authorities.
More resources can be found on the Parks Canada website and WildSafeBC