A man working in a remote area of northern British Columbia suffered non-life-threatening injuries Friday morning after encountering a female grizzly bear with cubs.
The incident occurred around 11 a.m. on Friday, July 4th in a fly-in location approximately 110 kilometers west of Fort Nelson, where a work group was operating. According to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service, the victim spotted the grizzly and her two cubs moments before the sow charged.
The man was bitten and scratched before the bear disengaged. Colleagues assisted the injured worker, who was airlifted to hospital for treatment and has since been released. The entire work group was evacuated from the area as a precaution.
Following an investigation that included interviews with the victim and a witness, conservation officers determined the attack was defensive in nature. Because of this classification and the remote location, officials will not attempt to capture or destroy the bear.
Due to these factors, including the remote location, there are no efforts being taken to capture or dispatch the bear
Grizzly Safety
This unfortunate incident had a fortunate ending, but highlights important safety considerations for those sharing grizzly habitat.
Prevention is Key
- Make noise while moving through bear country
- Travel in groups when possible
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- Be especially cautious around areas with limited visibility
Mother Bears with Cubs
- Female grizzlies are highly protective of their young
- Give bears with cubs an extremely wide berth
- If you see cubs, assume the mother is nearby
- Never get between a mother and her cubs
If You Do Encounter a Bear:
- Do not run - back away slowly while facing the bear
- Speak in a calm, low voice
- Make yourself appear larger by raising your arms
- If the bear charges, use bear spray when the animal is within 6-8 meters
Grizzly Bear Statistics in B.C.
Calls received and bears destroyed from 2011 to 2024
Total calls (2011-2024)
9,066
Bears destroyed
238
Peak calls year
2023
*2024 data through December
Source: Conservation Officer Service
According to B.C. Conservation Officer Service statistics, 114 calls regarding grizzly bears have been received so far this year.
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