*Update – October 16, 2023
A Message from the Conservation Officer Service:
We recognize bear activity in Whistler can cause concern for area residents, such as the recent arrival of a grizzly bear in the community.
We know grizzly sightings in the community are unusual, however we anticipate that we may see more in the future. The Conservation Officer Service is closely monitoring the grizzly bear that has been spotted in the area over the last several days. We can assure the public that its presence alone does not present an imminent risk to public safety.
This bear has not exhibited any aggressive or conflict behaviour and is feeding on natural foods. We ask the public to give the bear space in the hopes it moves on from the area.
To help ensure this bear – and other wildlife – does not linger and create conflicts, we are asking the public to ensure their attractants are securely stored. Residents can help us by inspecting their yards and properties and ensuring any attractants, such as garbage, pet food or birdseed, are securely stored. Please ensure barbecues are clean and fruit is removed from trees and the ground.
We also ask the public to take precautions in case of wildlife encounters. Do not approach bears to take pictures, confront bears or feed bears. Leash your pets, travel in groups and consider carrying bear spray. For more tips, please visit WildSafeBC.
The COS is in regular contact with our municipal and law enforcement partners. Any urgent public safety information will be immediately shared via our online social channels, with our partners and area media.
Conservation Officers continue to monitor bear activity in the area and will respond as necessary to ensure public safety. Bear conflicts and aggressive bear behaviour can be reported to the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline at 1-877-952-7277.
*Update – October 11, 2023*
Helicopter/Balsam Park and the adjacent soccer field at Myrtle Phillips Elementary School are closed due to a Grizzly Bear active in the area.
The closure will remain in place until further notice.
Additionally, the lower section of the trail ‘Cut Yer Bars’, which runs parallel to the lower Myrtle Phillips fields connecting to Balsam Park, will be closed to reduce the risk of surprise encounters with the grizzly bear.
The closure of Nicklaus North Golf Course remains in place, however the course has now closed to public for the season.
The COS is requesting that the public give the bear space and avoid the area to reduce potential conflict.
Please report all sightings of grizzly bears to COS on: 1-877-952-7277
October 9, 2023
The COS has attended to reports of a Grizzly Bear at the Nicklaus North Golf Course in Whistler.
Nicklaus North Golf Course has closed holes 3 – 13 as a safety precaution for guests. There is no access for the public to the golf course.
Residents and visitors are reminded to keep all pets leashed when walking. Please be extra vigilant of bears on the Valley trail surrounding the west side of the golf course.
If you encounter a bear, please give it space, back away slowly from the area and speak in a calm, firm voice.
Please report all sightings of grizzly bears to COS at: 1-877-952-7277.
Photo credit: iStock – Jillian Cooper
