Attention Wildlife Crossing!

Apart from its overwhelming beautiful nature, countless outdoor activities and awesome people , there is "something more" attracting visitors to come to British Columbia: the abundant BC Wildlife! Its  the desire to view and observe bears, moose, orcas, elk  and wales within their natural habitat that gets thousands of people onto planes to Vancouver.  They are the real stars on every holiday photograph or video. Spotting  one of the rarely seen cougar or timberwolfs, or just finding their tracks, is a once in a lifetime experience for any British Columbia tourist.

Wildlife does not have appearance hours or a timetable. You "bump" into them by pure coincidence. They appear at the side of the road or you might spot them on a meadow. It's just being lucky to be at the right spot on the right time.

But always remember: there is a WILD in wildlife:

• not seeing them does not mean they are not there!
• and mind: "You can't outrun a bear!"

Often during recent years we observed tourists getting dangerously close to bears and other wildlife. Mostly while trying to get an even closer-up photo. This is outright stupid and insensitiv. It does not only  endanger your live and health - you also put the animal in danger. It's their habitat - RESPECT IT!

Always remember:

Keep wild animals wild and keep a safe distance - safe for you and for them.

• They are dangerous and their reactions are unpredictable for us. Even if they appear relaxed and peaceful - the situation can shift within a split second and you can find yourself in grave danger.
• STAY IN YOUR CAR! When you spot a large animal as bear, wolf or moose, do not try to approach them for a better photo. Over shorter distances, they can reach velocities a human cannot outrun.
• Do not try to lure any animal closer by offering any kind of food. Goats for example lare always in for a good snack. They will not stop, but may climb onto your picknick table or even the hood of your car to convince you of giving some more!
• While hiking, remember to wear a small bell on yor backpack or/ and talk to your hiking companions. Wildlife and especially bears will hear you and avoid crossing your path. An easy way to avoid unlucky bump-ins.
• Should you cross the path of a bear, the most sensible thing is: stay calm, stand still and keep talking. Normally he will just walk away, so make sure he has enough space to leave.
• While camping - pay attention to the food storing rules. Always pick up carefully behind you and do not leave any food lying around. Anywhere in BC you find bear-safe residue containers.
• Once an animal appears - tourists gather. Please remember NOT to block the road. Do not park in double line and don't obstruct traffic. Pull onto the curb if possible and if not possible, enjoy that you have spottet another animal and just drive on! Surely you don't want to cause an accident just because of a photo op.