Boss Bear Wakes Up, Bear Season Begins in Alberta

0:00Banff National Park's legendary grizzly, known as the Boss, or Bear 122, just woke up from his winter sleep, signaling the start of Bear, season across Alberta. This mid to late 20's powerhouse is usually the first big bear spotted in the bow valley every spring, weighing in at 650 to 700 pounds as the top dog in the area. Wildlife photographer Chris Bloodhoff, who's lived in Banff for years, caught multiple glimpses of the boss over the past few days. He says the bear lived sharp as ever, not a day older after seven years of watching him roam. Folks are already buzzing and heading out to spot him, but Bloodhoff warns against crowding the guy. The boss deals with crowds from sunrise to sunset while he's still shaking off hibernation and hunting for food, so giving him space keeps everyone. Safer Parks Canada jumped in quick, closing the Lake Louise trailer campground to tents and soft-sided units for March 25th through December, 15th due to rising bear activity.

1:01Officials say more restrictions could pop up as spring heats up and encounters climb. With rivals like split lips circling and last year's spike in sighting still fresh, the boss's return reminds us bear's rule, these valleys, stay alert. Out there and let nature flow. You've been listening to Canada News today, AI-powered local news.