Alert: Grizzly bear seen on the western outskirts of Whistler

UPDATE: The same grizzly has now been confirmed to have been seen in Function Junction and the Cheakamus area of Whistler.

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The Conservation Officer Service (COS) has received an update regarding the location of the Grizzly Bear seen in Whistler in the fall of last year. The bear has emerged from hibernation and is currently on the ‘western outskirts’ of Whistler. COS didn’t specify the area or the location where the grizzly was spotted.

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“This is a timely reminder to residents and visitors that Whistler is a dog on-leash community, and all pets must be leashed when walking unless in a designated dog park. Keeping pets leashed and under control can help to avoid conflicts between people, pets and wildlife,” COS said.

The COS added that ensuring garbage is disposed of correctly, cleaning BBQs properly, and taking down bird seed and hummingbird feeders can help keep bears away from homes and residential areas.

Last year in October, COS attended to reports of a Grizzly Bear at the Nicklaus North Golf Course in Whistler. Later, Balsam Park and the adjacent soccer field at Myrtle Phillips Elementary School were also closed due to a Grizzly Bear active in the area.

Yesterday, residents reported a grizzly bear in the Cheakamus area of Whistler, but it turned out to be a black bear that was ‘moved off’ into a nearby wooded area.

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If you encounter a bear, give the bear space, speak in a calm, firm voice and back away slowly from the area. Check around you to ensure there are no other bears, cubs or a food source the bear may be trying to access. If you find yourself between a bear and cubs or a food source, move calmly and quietly to the side to create space between yourself, the bear, cubs or food. Remaining calm and not making loud noise shows the bear that you are not a threat to them and want to leave the area.

Please report any conflicts with grizzly bears to the COS on: 1-877-952-7277.