Investigation underway after black bear illegally killed in Manitoba

Conservation officers are asking for the public’s help to find those responsible for the illegal killing of a mother black bear.

The Manitoba Conservation Officer Service (COS) is investigating the illegal killing of a female black bear at the end of last month.

A provincial spokesperson confirmed the killing in a statement, saying no charges have been laid in connection with the March 31 incident.

Though there are set fines for offences of this nature, in this case, the accused would be issued a notice to appear in court, according to the spokesperson. The maximum penalty is a $10,000 fine and/or six months imprisonment.

The province warned those who live in bear country to remove bird feeders and avoid feeding wildlife.

“If there is an encounter with a bear, leave it alone, leave the area and the bear will move on as well,” the statement said.

“It would be best if people did not post locations of animals as not everyone has the best intentions.”

Anyone with information on the illegal killing is asked to call 1-800-782-0076.

Bear rescue speaks out

Black Bear Rescue Manitoba said the bear was illegally shot while at her winter den near Balmoral, Man., with her three cubs, who are only a few months old.

The rescue noted that leading up to the killing, the den’s exact location was shared on social media, with people allegedly going to the location to take photos and give food.

In an interview on Tuesday, the rescue’s president and owner Judy Stearns warned against posting the location of vulnerable wildlife to social media, saying people should “let wildlife stay wild.”

“You don’t want people going to the area to see them or to take pictures or to throw food, because you’re just getting them more habituated to humans and less afraid of them,” she explained.

The rescue is now in possession of the three orphaned cubs, who are currently about 11 weeks old.

Stearns said it’s very hard on baby bears to lose their moms, as the animals are intelligent, aware and share a close bond with their mothers.

She added the rescue is confident they will be able to get the cubs through this tough time; however, they are frightened.

“Their whole world has been turned upside down.”