Parks Canada relocates a denning black bear from Sunshine Village in Banff, citing public safety concerns as ski season opens.
Bear Relocated Amid Opening Weekend Crowds
A black bear denning near the Goat’s Eye gondola station at Sunshine Village ski resort in Banff National Park was safely removed on Oct. 31, according to Parks Canada. The relocation occurred just days before the resort opened for the winter season, drawing hundreds of skiers and snowboarders to the area.
Safety Concerns Prompted the Decision
Parks Canada resource conservation manager Dylan Spencer said the proximity of the den to a high-traffic ski route created a serious safety risk. With guests expected to pass less than 10 metres from the site, officials feared the bear could become startled. The possibility of the animal emerging suddenly from its den raised the potential for dangerous human-wildlife encounters.
Why Relocation Was Chosen Over Closures
Officials considered implementing an area closure but determined it was not feasible, given operational demands and limited alternative route options for skiers. Sunshine Village, located roughly 20 minutes from Banff, had already begun its winter operations after a recent snowfall. Parks Canada did not disclose the new location of the bear to prevent interference, but confirmed that it recovered well and is now being monitored with a GPS collar.
Bear’s Next Challenge: Finding a New Winter Den
The relocation occurred late in the season as bears across Alberta prepare for hibernation. Wildlife scientist Gordon Stenhouse said the bear still has time to establish a new den, though it may now compete with other bears for suitable sites. Den selection varies based on food availability, weather conditions and each bear’s physical condition. While temperatures are dropping and snow continues to accumulate in Banff, these shifting conditions can actually support the den-building process.
Preparing for Winter in the Rockies
With the region already receiving more than 20 centimetres of snow this month, bears are making seasonal decisions about when to conserve energy and settle in for winter. Stenhouse noted that colder ground can make den digging more stable, helping prevent collapse during excavation. As winter deepens, wildlife officials will continue to monitor the relocated bear’s movements to ensure its safety and adaptability in its new environment.
