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As we enjoy the outdoors and the mental health the outdoors brings, it's important that we remember to stay safe in bear country and carry bear spray.  Travelling in smaller groups to keep our social distances makes carrying bear spray even more essential.   So, what's the difference in bears?   Black bears can be black, blue-black, dark brown, brown, cinnamon and even white. Grizzlies can range from from black to blond. Size is not a good indicator of which species is which.  Black bears can weigh up to 800 pounds in the fall, and grizzly bears on Alberta’s Eastern Slopes can weigh as little...

It's important to be prepared for wildlife encounters with Elk at this time of year.  We commonly hear of someone biking, hiking or walking near Elk only to surprise an Elk calf lying in the grass out of site which puts Mom Elk on the defensive.  Be outdoors and be prepared for all wildlife encounters as you venture out.   Here's a recent caution on Elk encounters:  Elk Caution Canmore Area  

Here's a viral video of Sabre Wild Max bear spray being used on an actual bear.  For an encounter like this with a curious/predatory bear, bear experts advise:  Do not run Ready your bear spray Intimidate the bear - make yourself look as big as possible and shout aggressively at the bear. Use your bear spray if the bear comes within the usable range of the bear spray you're carrying.  (Typically 4-10m or 13-30 feet).  9m-10.5m for Frontiersman/Sabre 1% bear spray depending on wind, weather and canister size).   Video of Sabre Wild Max 225g bear spray being used in a...

Here's a great video on How to handle and avoid bear encounters by the great people at Bow Valley Wild Smart. Handling and Avoiding Bear Encounters

Here's a good live video on an actual bear encounter using Sabre Wild Max 225g bear spray and the effectiveness. Live video using Sabre Wild Max