Just posted by F&W on Facebook, bear was a grizzly and there is an area closure now, specifically addressing hunters as the guy was out scouting for sheep:
Quote:
Fish and wildlife officers are investigating a bear mauling in a remote area southwest of Sundre. In anticipation of bighorn sheep season, the man had been scouting about 12 – 13 km away from the trailhead when the incident took place. He was able to escape and hiked to the trailhead before driving his vehicle to the Mountanaire Lodge area. From there, he was airlifted in a private helicopter to the Sundre hospital and then later transferred to a Calgary hospital. He is being treated for serious but non-life threatening injuries to his body, head and face.
Officers collected samples from the survivor’s clothing, and through DNA analysis, we have confirmed that the bear involved was a grizzly. Officers have closed the area to the public and are actively attempting to trap the bear.
When hunting in bear country extra caution should be taken:
• Being quiet, using animal attractants and calls, and travelling alone mean there is an elevated risk of a bear encounter.
• It is important that hunters reduce the risk of a bear encounter by following bear safety protocols.
• If it is not necessary to be stealthy, it is better to warn bears before you get there, rather than being quiet and startling them.
• If you do hear noises, quietly retreating and leaving the area is the best tactic so not to further attract an animal’s attention.
• Firearms are not always readily available in all situations and other measures should be considered.
• Carry bear spray and a non-incendiary noisemaker. Keep them with you and know how to use them.
• If you see a bear, leave the area. Don’t risk an encounter.
• Recognize fresh bear signs, such as droppings, digging or buried carcasses.
• If a bear has become aggressive or taken over a carcass from a kill, contact a fish and wildlife officer.
• Keep your camp BearSmart.
|
Alberta Parks website has also been update with the closure:
http://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/kan...isories/#32336