Chad Dupuis, a resident of Slave Lake, Alberta, and an employee at Alberta Parks since 2017, shared his recent wildlife encounter at Carson Pegasus Provincial Park. In his role as the maintenance supervisor, Chad had just finished preparing over 120 camping sites for incoming visitors on a particularly hot Sunday.
Engaged in the demanding tasks of park maintenance, including waste collection, firepit maintenance, and cleaning up after campers, Chad was in high spirits as the day drew to a close. Returning to his Winnebago, he looked forward to grilling a steak for dinner.
However, upon entering his camper, Chad discovered that his steak was missing. Initially concerned about a nearby black bear, he realized the absence of other food items ruled out a bear intrusion. Puzzled, he considered the possibility of human interference, but the untouched jar of change on the counter dismissed that theory.
His investigation led him to a hole in the window screen, indicating a small animal’s entry. Disappointed at losing his anticipated meal, Chad reflected on the importance of respecting wildlife in their habitat, despite his familiarity with forest creatures.
As he sat on the bed, a growl from beneath alerted him to the presence of a pine marten, a weasel-like animal, which swiftly exited the camper. Relieved yet amused by the unexpected visitor, Chad settled for a simple meal that evening, contemplating the memorable encounter with the curious pine marten.
Chad’s wildlife tale serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of forest inhabitants and the necessity of coexisting harmoniously with them.
