Whistler trails shut to help grizzlies get ready for hibernation
Posted September 3, 2021 12:14 pm.
WHISTLER (NEWS 1130) — Let the grizzlies get girthy — that’s the goal of conservation officers and the Whistler community, in a move that will close trails to keep bears and people separated.
Due to increased grizzly bear activity in the Mount Sproatt and Rainbow Lake trail network, nearly a dozen trails will be closed until at least Sept. 11.
“The closure has been expanded from the initial closure of August 28 to more accurately reflect the area that the grizzlies use for feeding in this period of hyperphagia,” the resort municipality says.
Wildlife Alert: Grizzly bear closure in effect for some Sproatt Alpine Trails
This closure applies to On the Rocks trail and the upper portion of Lord Of the Squirrels. All other trails remain open.
For more information: https://t.co/hNcXSXB400 pic.twitter.com/NnZ5EV3jwW
— RMOW (@RMWhistler) August 28, 2021
Hyperphagia is a time when bears need to feed continuously, as it is in their genetic programming to prepare them for winter hibernation.
The municipality says interactions with humans can cause disruptions in the bears feeding, which can lead to aggressive behaviour.
“Their survival depends on them getting enough calories.”
As of August 30, the trail closures include:
– Mystic (above Less)
– On the Rocks
– With A Twist
– Pot Of Gold
– Ninja Loop
– Upper Lord of the Squirrels
– Happy Hour
– Last Call
– Rush Hour
– Rainbow Hiking Trail
