While the calendar and the groundhog may have their opinions about when spring starts, people who live in Banff National Park know a bear sighting really kicks the season off. On Tuesday, March 30, Banff National Park announced the first bear of the year has been spotted and advised everyone to start practicing bear safety right away. Editor's Choice: Alberta's Bears Are About To Wake Up For Spring & The 'Big, Dominate Males' Will Be First First bear of the year has been spotted! 🐻Remember to be #BearAware when you are visiting @BanffNP. Make noise, keep pets on leash and always be aware of your surroundings when you are walking on trails. Please report all bear sightings to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-1470 pic.twitter.com/p1VxAipps6— Banff National Park (@BanffNP) March 30, 2021 The bears that typically come out of hibernation first are big, dominant males and they're going to be really hungry. "Make noise, keep pets on leash and always be aware of your surroundings when you are walking on trails," said the park. While the park doesn't share real-time bear locations, you can stay informed about closures and warnings online.
