Actress Tracy Spiridakos' new turn as park ranger Anna Pigeon in the new USA Network series began with a stark reminder that wild places are exactly that: wild.
On the first day of filming in Canada, the cast and crew were warned that a grizzly bear and her cubs were in the area, underscoring a bigger reality beyond the set — when people move through animal habitat, whether for work or recreation, wildlife encounters can follow.
What happened?
The first big off-camera warning came from park rangers, not the script. Spiridakos told Woman's World that the production was alerted to a mother grizzly with cubs near the filming location and was advised to keep bear spray ready in case of an encounter. The new USA Network series is based on Nevada Barr's mystery novels.
For Spiridakos, the setting was personally meaningful as well as central to the story. Growing up in Canada, she said she has long loved nature and spent time camping in the same area they were filming when she was younger, while the series follows a ranger who protects public lands and solves crimes.
She also said the production worked with real animals on set, including a cougar, adding to the authenticity of the wilderness setting.
One of her favorite co-stars was a horse named Joker. While Spiridakos said she already had riding experience, training for the role deepened that connection and became one of the highlights of filming.
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Why does it matter?
When humans enter forests, mountains, and parks — whether for filming, hiking, camping, or development — they are moving through spaces where animals are trying to feed, raise their young, and survive.
That overlap can increase the odds of close encounters, especially with protective mother bears with cubs.
A show like Anna Pigeon relies on landscapes that continue to support species such as bears and cougars.
What can I do?
The production's first response was to listen to local experts.
Park rangers understood conditions on the ground, identified the risk, and advised the crew to carry bear spray.
Check park alerts, keep your distance from animals, secure food, stay aware of your surroundings, and learn region-specific safety guidance before heading out. In bear country, that may mean carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it.
Moving closer for a photo or ignoring warnings can put both humans and animals at risk.
Spiridakos summed up the appeal of both the series and its setting in her own words, stating, "We shot everything practical on location. It's this amazing scenery," and, "I hope that people will enjoy going on this adventure with us week to week."
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