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Massive 450-Pound Grizzly Known as ‘The Boss’ Takes a Rare Trip to Canmore

Massive 450-Pound Grizzly Known as ‘The Boss’ Takes a Rare Trip to Canmore
The Boss, a huge grizzly bear usually seen around Banff National Park, was spotted in the Canmore area recently by a local wildlife photographer. (Jason Leo Bantle)

A massive grizzly bear known as “The Boss” has recently been spotted in Canmore, Alberta, delighting and awing locals. Known officially as Bear No. 122, this 450-pound titan is considered the most dominant grizzly in Banff National Park. The Boss’s unexpected visit to Canmore, much farther east than his usual stomping grounds, has sparked fascination and a renewed focus on bear safety.

A Rare Sighting in Canmore

Massive 450-Pound Grizzly Known as ‘The Boss’ Takes a Rare Trip to Canmore
The Boss, officially known as Bear No. 122, is thought to be the largest grizzly in Banff National Park. (Jason Leo Bantle)

The Boss, estimated to be in his mid-20s, was spotted by local nature photographer and biologist Jason Leo Bantle in the small hamlet of Harvie Heights, northwest of Canmore. Bantle captured stunning images of the bear as it foraged for food in preparation for hibernation. For many residents, this was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to observe the “patriarch of the Bow Valley” up close.

On Sunday, The Boss wandered further east into Canmore, where local peace officers and RCMP monitored his movements through residential areas. Remarkably, the grizzly showed no signs of aggression, focusing instead on gathering sustenance like berries and apples.

A Life of Survival and Strength

Grizzly bear sits in the grass with yellow flowers.
Grizzly bear sits in the grass with yellow flowers. Image by Gregory Rogers via Pexels.

The Boss is no ordinary bear. His scars—a missing tuft of fur on his face and a chunk of his right ear—tell the story of his resilience. Over the years, he has survived being hit by a train and even eaten a rival black bear, solidifying his status as the apex predator of the region. Despite these challenges, he remains a powerful and awe-inspiring symbol of the Canadian wilderness.

Preparing for Hibernation

Grizzly bear swims through the water.
Grizzly bear swims through the water. Image by Diego Madrigal via Pexels.

This time of year is critical for grizzlies like The Boss, who are on the hunt for high-calorie food to sustain them through hibernation. Wildlife experts believe he followed train tracks into Canmore, likely drawn by spilled grains or the carcasses of animals struck by trains.

“This is the first time I’m aware that he’s gone to the town of Canmore,” said Blair Fyten, a human-wildlife coexistence specialist with Banff National Park. He added that the bear was probably seeking as much food as possible before heading into hibernation.

Guided Back to Safety

Grizzly bear in the woods.
Grizzly bear in the woods. Image by itfeelslikefilm via Pexels.

After spending time in Canmore, The Boss was shepherded westward by Parks Canada wardens. Using techniques such as noise-making and paintball guns loaded with compressed chalk, the wardens carefully guided the bear away from populated areas and back toward his usual habitat near Banff and Lake Louise.

This isn’t the first time The Boss has required intervention. Known for occasionally wandering into human territories, he is accustomed to being directed back into the wild by wildlife officials. His ability to adapt and coexist with human activity underscores his intelligence and resilience.

A Moment of Awe and Reflection

Young Grizzly bear in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming.
Young Grizzly bear in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. Image via Depositphotos.

For Jason Leo Bantle, capturing The Boss in his neighborhood was an emotional experience. Reflecting on the encounter, he described feeling overwhelmed by the presence of such a majestic creature.

“Just to have been in the presence of such a bear and to have such unique moments … it was really overwhelming,” Bantle shared.

Several Harvie Heights residents watched The Boss forage from the safety of their vehicles, marveling at his calm demeanor and immense presence. For many, the experience was a rare and humbling reminder of the wild beauty that surrounds them.

Bear Safety

Grizzly
Grizzly Bear. Image by Simon Hurry via Pexels.

While The Boss’s visit brought wonder and excitement, it also highlighted the importance of bear safety in mountain towns. Parks Canada officials urge residents and visitors to carry bear spray year-round, as it is also effective against other wildlife like cougars and elk.

“If you do encounter a bear … let them know you’re there and back off,” Fyten advised.

A Living Icon of the Wild

Grizzly Bear
Grizzly Bear. Image by: AndreAnita via Depositphotos.

The Boss remains a living legend of the Canadian wilderness, embodying the raw power and beauty of nature. His rare visit to Canmore not only provided a thrilling spectacle for locals but also reminded everyone of the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife preservation. As winter approaches and The Boss prepares for hibernation, his legacy as the most dominant grizzly in Banff National Park continues to inspire awe and respect.