The Grizzly Bear
"Ursus arctos"

Growing up in remote areas of Northern Alberta, we were raised to respect all wildlife, like the brown/grizzly bear. When you ventured into the woods, you were in their country and stumbling across the bear would be our  burden as we were the intruders. We were taught if the bear chose to defend, just like we would if a stranger entered our home, it would be our fault not theirs, so becareful where you ventured. Preserving nature, respecting wildlife, and the environment was simply natural,  expected and done without question so we and future generations could enjoy it.

Through awareness we also learned that when too much habitat was changed or altered by development, carelessness and disrespect there would be instability in the natural systems, causing destabilization which meant fewer species,  and diminished renewable resources. All makes sense!  So the pondering points are, "With all the awareness and  preservations methods Albertans are taught,  what has happened to this knowledge and understanding and why is it now so easy to abuse what we are responsible to protect?" With sadness we see wildlife like the "Grizzly Bear" close to being put on the threatened or endangered species lists and we can't allow this to happen. Through commitment, and preservation people can change what it happening, each one of us can make a difference. Check out the Bow Valley Grizzly Bear Alliance and WildCanada.Net see how you can help.

"Save the Grizzly"
a threatened species hanging on in an increasingly hostile environment

Excellent Grizzly Bear Links

  Bears in Alberta
  Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society
 The American Grizzly Bear
 Eastern Slopes Grizzly Bear Project
  National Wildlife Federation
  Defenders of Wildlife
 Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center