A small area in the Banff townsite has been closed after a carnivore killed an elk.
Although the elk carcass has been removed, there is concern the remaining smell could attract carnivores. There are currently no details on what killed the elk – wolf, cougar or bear for example – but there has been at least one bear and a cougar in the vicinity.
In a Facebook post, the Town of Banff made the announcement that Parks Canada has closed a portion of land between the Bow River trail and the Bow River, between the Banff Avenue bridge and the Muskrat Street pedestrian bridge on the north side of the river.
The trail and bridge remain open but Parks Canada and the Town of Banff is asking the public to stay alert and exercise extra caution when travelling in this area.
“People should continue practicing wildlife safety in the townsite; do not leave children and pets unsupervised,” states the Town of Banff post.
“Please carry bear spray, secure all food and wildlife attractants, keep pets on leash, respect all wildlife closures and report large carnivore sightings (e.g. cougar, bear, wolf) as soon as possible to Banff Dispatch: 403-762-1470.”
Parks Canada was not immediately available for comment.
Further afield in Banff National Park, a warning is in place for the Skoki area and Johnston Creek trails because bears, in the area because of a seasonal food source, have been approaching hikers.
“Several grizzly bears in the area displaying defensive and aggressive behaviour,” states the Parks Canada warning issued on Monday (Sept. 9).
The warning affects all Skoki trails including Skoki Lodge, Merlin Meadows, Baker Lake, Ptarmigan Lake, Jones Pass, and Cotton Grass Pass. Johnston Creek trails, including trails to Luellen Lake and Mystic, Badger and Pulsatilla Passes are also included in the warning.
Parks Canada recommends hikers travel in a group size of four or more.
Residents and visitors are also reminded to secure all wildlife attractants, all food and garbage must be disposed of in a proper receptacle, pay attention for bears when travelling in this area, make noise when hiking and cycling, keep pets on leash and keep a close eye on children.
Carry bear spray and know how to use it is also advised.
Report all bear sightings immediately to a visitor centre or Banff Dispatch at 403-762-1470
This story will be updated when more information becomes available.