The District of Highlands is home to numerous wildlife species, including black bears and cougars.
Do not disturb wildlife. Give wild animals space (stay at least 100 metres away – approximately one football field), by not approaching too closely for a photograph or a better look. Bears, cougars and other wildlife may react aggressively if they feel threatened by you or your pet.
Do not feed wildlife. It is illegal to feed wildlife. Wildlife find their healthiest food in their natural environment. Once they become accustomed to being fed by people, they stop looking for their natural foods and lose their fear of humans. These animals, no longer “wild”, are a threat to public safety.
Tips to help keep Highland's wildlife thriving
- View from a distance. Respect the space of WILD animals.
- Do not follow. You may feel following an animal to get the perfect photo is harmless; however, you are wrong. Respect them in their natural habitat.
- Watch the body language of wildlife. Even if you’re a safe distance away or in your vehicle, wildlife may not be comfortable with your presence. If the animals respond to you (grunting, pinning ears, startle, flying away), you’re too close.
- Don’t allow pets and wildlife to mix.
- Keep to trails and designated areas only.
- Pack it in. Pack it out. Help keep our environment pristine by being responsible and packing out what you pack in. Leave no trace behind.