Bear 222 and her cubs, along with other wildlife, evade Jasper wildfire flames

Parks Canada recently reassured the public that despite the wildfire scorching Jasper National Park, Grizzly Bear 222 is safe and sound. The federal agency shared on social media that the bear, fitted with a radio tracking collar, has been closely monitored since the blaze began last week. „She looks like a very healthy grizzly bear right now,“ Parks Canada stated in a social media thread, providing some much-needed relief amidst the devastation caused by the wildfire.

During the wildfire, Grizzly Bear 222 and her two cubs found refuge in a wet spot by the Athabasca River, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of wildlife in the face of natural disasters. While the loss of a third of the Jasper townsite, including homes and buildings, is heartbreaking, experts emphasize that animals have evolved mechanisms to protect themselves during wildfires.

James McCormick, Jasper’s human-wildlife coexistence specialist, highlighted that fire is a natural process, and animals are adept at finding new habitats to thrive in. Mark Boyce, a wildlife biologist at the University of Alberta, echoed this sentiment, stating that most animals instinctively move away from wildfires to ensure their survival. Boyce referenced a study on the 1998 wildfire in Yellowstone National Park, where only a small fraction of the elk population perished in the blaze, underscoring the ability of wildlife to navigate and adapt to changing landscapes.

A 2023 paper in the journal Conservation outlined various ways in which animals respond to wildfires. Large animals can flee the flames, while smaller species seek shelter underground or in protected areas within the burn zone. Birds may fly away, although some could be affected by smoke inhalation. The paper also noted that slower-moving species and vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and young animals, face higher risks during wildfires.

Despite the initial challenges posed by wildfires, Boyce emphasized that burned-over land provides a bounty of food for many species as new vegetation sprouts. The regrowth following a wildfire attracts animals like bears, elk, moose, and deer, who thrive on the fresh green shoots. While there may be a period of adjustment, the ecosystem ultimately benefits from the rejuvenation brought about by wildfires.

As the fire in Jasper National Park continues to rage, Parks Canada reported that Grizzly Bear 222 has been spotted feeding on berries and clover near the Jasper Park Lodge golf course. While the fire within the townsite has been extinguished, highways through the park remain closed, and a staged re-entry plan is being developed for residents and workers. Despite the ongoing challenges, officials remain optimistic about the park’s recovery and the resilience of its wildlife, much like the indomitable Bear 222.