Black bear attacks in Canada and a review of the factors influencing them

Abstract

Canada has experienced numerous black bear attacks over the last several decades. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is an increase in the number of black bear attacks in Canada. Data came from various news sources in each province and the Northwest Territories to gather information about the attacks. The gathered information was then separated into a variety of tables and examined to gain insight on the number of attacks, where they occurred, and the age of the victims. There was a slight increase in the total number of fatal attacks and a larger increase in the number of nonfatal attacks over the last 31 years. Encounters were interpreted to be from both predatory and defensive bears.