Aversive Conditioning

Aversive conditioning is a non-lethal wildlife management technique that applies negative physical or psychological stimuli to encourage wildlife to avoid humans, human-use areas, and anthropogenic food sources. The objective is to modify undesirable behaviors—such as wildlife approaching developed areas in search of food—by restoring a natural wariness of humans. This approach reduces the frequency of human-wildlife conflicts and minimizes the need for lethal management interventions.

With decades of professional experience in aversive conditioning involving species such as bears, moose, and bighorn sheep, the Canadian Bear Safety Authority (CBSA) provides specialized services to government agencies, industry partners, and communities. These services are designed to enhance the safety and well-being of both personnel and wildlife across shared landscapes.

Aversive conditioning has proven effective in reducing wildlife encounters at specific locations by re-establishing natural behavioral boundaries. The goal is to condition wildlife to recognize and respect human presence, prompting them to disengage and vacate the area.

To achieve consistent and successful outcomes, CBSA employs a range of non-lethal tools, including pain stimulus devices (e.g., paintball markers with clay projectiles), noise deterrents, and trained K9 units. These tools are applied strategically and consistently to reinforce avoidance behaviors.

CBSA’s field personnel bring extensive experience in implementing these techniques, ensuring effective, humane, and results-driven outcomes. The overarching objective is to promote coexistence through clearly established boundaries between wildlife and human activity.

Permits from Provincial Governments must be obtained to conduct this activity.