Chad Dupuis, an Alberta Parks employee since 2017, shared his experience of living and working in the forest. As a maintenance supervisor at Carson Pegasus Provincial Park in Slave Lake, Alberta, Chad described a typical busy day preparing camping sites for new arrivals under the hot sun.

Engaged in various park maintenance tasks like garbage collection and firepit cleaning, Chad was in high spirits as the workday neared its end. However, upon returning to his Winnebago, he discovered his steak had mysteriously disappeared. Initially suspecting a nearby black bear, Chad soon realized a small critter had chewed through a window screen to snatch his meal.

Reflecting on his encounters with wildlife in the forest, Chad acknowledged the importance of respecting animals’ habitats. Hearing a growl from under his bed, he discovered a pine marten, a weasel family member, had invaded his camper. After the marten retreated, Chad chuckled at the unexpected dinner turn of events, opting for a meal with Mr. Noodle instead.

This amusing wildlife encounter served as a reminder of the untamed nature of forest inhabitants, prompting Chad to appreciate the unpredictability and surprises they bring, even in his daily routine.