Black bear killed after breaking into vehicles and tent at B.C. campground

A black bear is seen near Lake Louise, Alta., in June, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward

An “aggressive” black bear sow was killed in a Lower Mainland provincial park Thursday following multiple reports of conflict, according to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service.

The agency says BC Parks requested its help to deal with the bear in Golden Ears Provincial Park, and that “dispatching” the animal was necessary to ensure public safety.

The bear had an “extensive conflict history” and showed no fear of humans, the BCCOS said.

It broke into numerous vehicles and entered a tent and multiple campsites to get food, according to officers. In addition, the bear was often present at campgrounds during the day and approached people.

“We recognize this incident and response may be distressing for people. Dispatching any bear is not the outcome we want,” said Insp. Simon Gravel said, in a social media post Friday. “This bear learned to associate people with food and its behaviour was escalating. All options were exhausted and unfortunately, dispatching was the only outcome to keep people safe.”

Officers also captured and tranquilized two cubs on Thursday. They were determined to not be involved in any conflicts at the park and are now being raised at Critter Care Wildlife Society.

The BCCOS says it will continue monitoring bear activity in Golden Ears.

Information on how to reduce bear conflicts and stay safe in an encounter can be found on the WildSafeBC website.