Search and rescue crews in Lions Bay, B.C., are warning people venturing into the backcountry that a grizzly bear has been spotted on multiple occasions recently. The “unusual visitor” was most recently spotted in the Deeks Lake area, but Lions Bay Search and Rescue noted that “this bear could be anywhere” because the animals can cover significant distances. “Grizzlies in the Lions Bay area are rare, and we don’t know why this bear has travelled here. Wildfires can contribute to wildlife displacement and movement, but we cannot say that is what brought this particular bear into the area,” Lions Bay SAR said, in a social media post Monday. Regardless of how the bear made its way to the area, the search and rescue group is urging people to give it space while also taking precautions to protect themselves and minimize the potential for problematic encounters. Hikers and campers are being asked to keep their dogs leashed and to secure all food and food waste to avoid attracting the animal. Carrying immediately accessible bear spray is also recommended. None of the people who have spotted the bear have reported any aggressive behaviour. “Seeing a grizzly in this landscape is a rare privilege. The best outcome is that this young bear is allowed to move through the area naturally, without becoming habituated to people or human food,” Lions Bay SAR said, in the post. “Coexistence starts with respect — for the animal, its space and the landscape we share.” Additional wildlife safety tips are available online.
