Advertisement

Alberta bear experts warn of conflicts with cyclists as woman recovers from attack

Click to play video: 'Bear experts warn of human encounters after Canmore cyclist attacked'
Bear experts warn of human encounters after Canmore cyclist attacked
WATCH ABOVE: Officials are warning Albertans that cyclists are particularly vulnerable to bear encounters after a Canmore woman was attacked. Jill Croteau has details on why there's a high probability of contact with bears right now. – Jul 21, 2016

Two bear attacks in as many days have triggered warnings and prompted more trail closures in Alberta.

A woman in her 20s was cycling with a friend along the Lowline Trail near the Nordic Centre Wednesday, when a bear approached the pair and charged at the woman. Her riding companion activated her bear spray and it fled. The woman was recovering from internal injuries in hospital Thursday.

WATCH: Hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts are being warned to pay attention to bear warnings in place throughout southern Alberta. Doug Vaessen has details.

Click to play video: 'Bear warnings throughout Alberta mountain parks'
Bear warnings throughout Alberta mountain parks

A Canmore bear expert said there has been a high frequency of bear and human conflicts. Tyler McClure with WildSmart said cyclists are particularly vulnerable.

Story continues below advertisement
“Cycling people are moving fast and moving quietly so it’s extra important we make noise to give them space,” McClure said. "We do have a high probability of coming into contact with them."

READ MORE: Grizzly bear that attacked Alberta hikers will be left alone to move on

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

It is considered berry season from now until the end of August. Conservation officials said you can expect bears to be foraging for the fruit along bike and walking trails.

Trail users said they’re used to seeing grizzlies and black bears roaming in the area.

READ MORE: ‘He chased the bear off her’ – Alberta campground owner says son ran to save hikers

Anika Fedorchuk, a long-time Canmore resident, said she runs into the animals “all the time” on her bike but has never had a problem. But she said she isn’t naive to the potential for a dangerous situation.

“These are scary and powerful animals and unpredictable if you scare them. We are in their territory, we have chosen to live here and people don’t understand that.”

Story continues below advertisement

Experts suggest making lots of human noises such as talking or singing while using the trails. They also recommend carrying bear spray.

Fish and Wildlife officials have temporarily closed the trail.

Watch below: Global’s ongoing coverage of bear encounters in Alberta

Sponsored content

AdChoices