UPDATE:
- The B.C. Conservation Officer Service announced on August 14 that it had euthanized the mother grizzly bear due to safety concerns stemming from the animal’s habituation to human food and lack of fear towards people.
- The two remaining yearling bears were relocated to an undisclosed area for continued monitoring.
- CBC News was informed by the service that they were unavailable for interviews.
A demonstration was held in Nelson, B.C., on Thursday to express opposition to the decision made by the B.C. Conservation Officer Service to euthanize a young grizzly bear.Â
This bear was part of one of the two grizzly bear families that have been widely observed roaming in and around Nelson.
Katie Graves, founder of the Ursa Project Society, described the rally as an emotional gathering with tears and hugs among participants.Â
Graves argued that the yearling grizzly, which had a leg injury or deformity, should not have been put down.Â
She emphasized that the bear was mobile, able to keep pace with its family, and capable of feeding itself.
“As it grew older, it could be seen running, albeit with a slight limp, essentially moving on three legs.
“Many bears in the wild live fulfilling lives despite being what we refer to as ‘tripods.'”
In a statement released on Wednesday, the B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) stated that the bear’s age, injury, and history of conflicts rendered it unsuitable for rehabilitation or relocation. Specific conflict incidents were not detailed.
The BCCOS remarked, “It is always regrettable when an injured, sick, or habituated bear necessitates humane euthanasia. These decisions are not taken lightly.”
Graves mentioned that the mother bear had initially brought cubs to the area in 2023, had been relocated, and subsequently returned.
The Conservation Officer Service has not responded to inquiries regarding the status of the other grizzlies — a sow and two yearlings — but assured that any captured bears would undergo assessment for determining the next course of action.Â
The incident has generated numerous comments on local Facebook groups, predominantly criticizing the decision to euthanize the young grizzly.
Several individuals acknowledged the officers’ efforts to protect public safety and expressed a desire to avoid lethal measures.
There was a consensus that better management of garbage disposal and maintaining distance from bears could help mitigate such situations.
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