Wildlife Encounters in Calgary: A Perspective for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Calgary, a bustling metropolis in the heart of Alberta, presents a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. The city, while predominantly known for its urban landscape, surprisingly hosts an array of wildlife. However, the frequency and visibility of these animals vary significantly across different regions of Canada. In this article, we explore the wildlife encounters in Calgary, providing insights into the frequency of spotting potentially dangerous animals such as moose, elk, bears, cougars, and the less common lynx and bobcats.

Difference in Wildlife Encounter Across Canada

It’s important to note that the prevalence of potentially dangerous wildlife differs across various parts of Canada. In regions like Quebec, Ontario, or Manitoba, the presence of bears, wolves, coyotes, and foxes is less of an issue. However, for municipalities like Calgary, the encounter with wildlife is more frequent, albeit in varying degrees.

Calgary: A City with Wildlife Around Corners

As a lifelong resident of Calgary, I have personally witnessed numerous instances of wildlife encounters. Deer are incredibly common and pose no danger, while moose, found on the outskirts of the city, occasionally make an appearance in populated areas, causing quite the stir. These magnificent animals are known to enter yards despite being in the city limits. Coyotes are as ubiquitous as the chirping of crickets, especially in parks and residential areas. In contrast, elk seem to prefer the solitude of the mountains rather than the bustling city life.

Wildlife Encounters in the Outskirts

If one ventures less than a 15 to 20-minute drive from the city center, the frequency of encounters with bears and moose noticeably increases. These animals, particularly bears, are not exactly common in the city but do venture in periodically. When spotted, wildlife officers usually translocate them, which is a fairly rare occurrence, happening just a few times a year. Similarly, moose, although present, are not as frequent.

Living with Wildlife in the City

Locals may find it surprising that despite the presence of wildlife, most Calgarians rarely see them. However, these encounters do happen. For instance, life downtown, garbage collection day brings a spectacle of coyotes, often as close as 15 feet away from people, dodging cars to continue their muesli hunt. Coyotes were also known to snatch dogs in parks, leading to necessary measures to control their population. Despite these interactions, wildlife like deer are clever enough to navigate city crossings and busy streets in crosswalks.

Recurring Wildlife Events

Occasional reports of danger are not uncommon in the Calgary area. Five years ago, a grizzly bear was spotted in Fish Creek Park, reminding residents of the region’s natural wonders. Bears and moose, though less common, do make their presence known, much like the occasional sighting of bobcats, which seem to be pushing out the shy lynx. Despite these sightings, a surprisingly high percentage of Calgarians, around 80%, never spot a wild animal in the city.

Conclusion

The wildlife encounters offer a fascinating insight into the coexistence of animals and urban life in Calgary. While the frequency of encounters with potentially dangerous wildlife is lower than one might expect, these instances serve as a reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds the city. For visitors and outdoor enthusiasts, understanding these patterns can help in appreciating and respecting the local ecosystem.