Are there specific times when bears are more active in spring?

Emergence from Hibernation

In Saskatchewan, female black bears typically give birth to their cubs in late February to early March, and the entire family will remain in their winter den until the spring thaw. Once they emerge, they prioritize finding food to replenish their energy reserves, which were depleted during the long winter months. During this initial feeding period, usually in late April, bears are most active in the morning and early afternoon, when insects and other small prey are most active. As the spring progresses, they will continue to feed on vegetation, berries, and nuts.

Foraging and Habituation

As the spring season unfolds, bears in Saskatchewan will begin to expand their territory in search of food and suitable habitats. During this time, they can become habituated to human presence, particularly if they associate humans with food sources. This can lead to increased conflicts between humans and bears. To minimize these conflicts, residents and outdoorsmen should take precautions to secure trash and food waste, and avoid approaching or feeding bears.

Peak Activity Periods

In Saskatchewan, black bears typically reach their peak activity in late May to early June, when vegetation is at its peak and insects are abundant. During this period, they can be active at any time of day, but are most likely to be seen during the late morning and early evening hours, when they are foraging for food and traveling through their territory.