Aversive Conditioning

KBSIC has sponsored an M.Sc. graduate student from Royal Roads University. This project examines the effectiveness of an alternative method of managing "problem" bears - aversive conditioning. The following is an abstract of the thesis results. For a full copy of the report, click here.

 Abstract

Using a post hoc study design, I evaluate the effectiveness of aversive conditioning (AC) as a non-lethal management technique to reduce bear-human conflict, and ultimately reduce bear mortality. I found a decrease in developed site use by radio-collared grizzly bears in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park (PLPP) after the onset of AC. Also, wariness of collared bears increased with application of AC, both short-term and long-term. Wariness of non-collared bears also increased after application of AC. Grizzly bear mortality and relocation rates in the period after AC began decreased by half in PLPP, while at the same time increasing five-fold on adjacent lands where AC was a commonly used tool. Finally, there was a decrease in the number of bear-related facility management actions  after the onset of AC. I conclude that AC is an effective management tool to reduce human conflicts with grizzly bears and promote population stability.