Safety in the Wilderness While Camping: How to Check for Wildlife and Protect Your Family

Camping in the Canadian wilderness can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to prioritize safety, especially when it comes to potential wildlife encounters. Animals like bears and geese are common in many regions across Canada, so being prepared and aware of your surroundings is essential.

1. Bear Safety: How to Check for Bear Activity

Bears are one of the most concerning wildlife dangers for campers, especially in areas like British Columbia, Ontario, and Alberta. Here’s how you can stay safe and check for signs of bear activity:

• Look for Tracks & Scat: Bear tracks are typically large (about 7-10 inches) with five toes, and their scat (droppings) may contain berries, seeds, or fur. Always scan your campsite and surrounding area for these signs, especially if you’re camping in a known bear habitat.
• Check for Bear Claw Marks: Bears often scratch trees to mark territory. Look for claw marks, which may appear as horizontal scratches on tree trunks.
• Smell the Air: Bears have an incredible sense of smell. If you notice any unusual, strong scents, it could indicate the presence of a bear nearby, particularly if the area smells of rotting food or carcasses.

2. Preventing Bear Encounters:

• Store Food Properly: Always store food in bear-proof containers or use a hanging system to keep food at least 10 feet off the ground and away from tents.
• Make Noise: Bears often avoid humans, so talking, singing, or making noise while hiking or moving around your campsite can help prevent surprise encounters.
• Keep a Safe Distance: If you spot a bear, don’t approach it. Slowly back away without turning your back on the animal.
• Know the Bear Species: In Canada, the most common bears you might encounter are black bears and grizzly bears. Understanding their behaviors and knowing how to react to each can be life-saving.

3. Goose Safety: How to Check for Geese and Protect Your Family

Geese are another common animal in Canadian parks, lakes, and campgrounds, and while they are not typically dangerous, they can be aggressive, particularly during nesting seasons.

• Look for Nests: Geese usually nest near water, so if you’re camping near a lake or river, keep an eye out for their nests. Geese are protective of their nests and young, and they may attack if they feel threatened.
• Look for Droppings: Goose droppings are typically large and can be found around areas where they feed or nest. If you spot large clusters of droppings, be cautious and avoid the area if possible.

4. Preventing Goose Encounters:

• Avoid Nesting Areas: If you see geese or their nests, give them space. Try to camp away from these areas to avoid unnecessary conflict.
• Stay Calm and Back Away: If a goose becomes aggressive, remain calm. Do not run or try to approach it. Slowly back away and avoid direct eye contact, as this can provoke the animal.

5. General Wildlife Tips for Canadian Campers:

• Know the Local Wildlife: Before heading to a campsite, research the specific wildlife in that area. National and provincial parks often provide information about wildlife safety.
• Keep Your Campsite Clean: Keep your campsite free of food scraps, wrappers, or any scented products like lotions or deodorants that might attract animals. Always pack out your trash.
• Use Wildlife Deterrents: Consider using natural deterrents, like bear sprays or devices that make noise, to protect your campsite.

6. Don’t Scare the Kids – Safety without the Worry

While it’s important to be aware of potential wildlife risks, it’s equally important not to scare your kids with these concerns. Camping is meant to be fun, and the goal is to educate them on safety without causing unnecessary fear.

• Stay Calm and Confident: Kids often pick up on their parents’ emotions. If you stay calm and confident, they’re more likely to feel at ease.
• Focus on the Fun: Instead of dwelling on potential dangers, focus on the exciting aspects of camping – like hiking, cooking over the campfire, and stargazing.
• Teach Them What to Do in an Emergency: Give your kids a basic understanding of safety, like what to do if they see a bear or any other wildlife. Teach them to stay in the group, and what behaviors to avoid, such as running or making loud noises that could startle animals.

By taking the necessary precautions and educating your children in a calm, positive way, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience without creating unnecessary fear.

Conclusion: Be Prepared, Be Safe, and Enjoy the Adventure

Camping with kids is an incredible bonding experience, but it’s important to stay vigilant, especially when camping in areas with abundant wildlife. By taking the necessary precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for the whole family. Always remember that while wildlife encounters are rare, being prepared is the key to a safe and memorable adventure in the Canadian wilderness.