Just in time for spring, RMB / Rocky Mountain Books, in conjunction with Wildsight and WildSafe BC are pleased to announce the release of Bears: Without Fear by wildlife biologist Kevin Van Tighem.

In this engaging and sensitive book, former Banff National Park superintendent Van Tighem calls on his decades of experience and knowledge to enlighten readers about our relationship with and attitude toward bears.

From thousands of cave drawings found throughout the world to all manner of contemporary media, human beings’ innate fear of bears is well documented. And where human populations grow, bears have either dwindled or completely disappeared. Clearly, as long as these magnificent creatures fight to survive, we will have to deal with the realities confronting them as a result of our ever-expanding population and the bears’ ever-shrinking and fragmenting natural habitat.

Through research, field observation, practical advice, personal anecdotes and an array of stunning colour photos, Bears: Without Fear is meant to demystify bears and promote a deeper understanding of these vulnerable, albeit powerful, wild animals. Van Tighem argues that not only is coexistence possible, it is necessary, not only for ensuring the survival of bear populations but for enabling people to safely enjoy the natural world. Arming ourselves with knowledge and understanding can enable us to explore and experience the great outdoors and still achieve a sustainable future for bears.

Kevin will be discussing Bears: Without Fear throughout the East Kootenay:

Elkford Community Centre, June 13 at 6 p.m.

Fernie Heritage Library on June 14 at 7 p.m.

Invermere CPR Lodge on June 16, 7:30 p.m.

Cranbrook Manual Training Centre on June 18, 7:30 p.m.

Kimberley Centennial Hall on June 19, 7:30 p.m.

Everyone is welcome.

Kevin Van Tighem has studied wildlife in Western Canada for almost 40 years. A naturalist and hunter, he has written more than 200 articles, stories and essays on conservation and wildlife topics which have garnered him many awards, including Western Magazine Awards, Outdoor Writers of Canada book and magazine awards and the Journey Award for Fiction. He has served on the executive committees of the Federation of Alberta Naturalists, Alberta Wilderness Association and Foothills Model Forest. His decades of work in western Canada culminated in 2011 with his retirement as superintendent of Banff National Park. Kevin lives in Canmore, Alberta.

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