Black bear killed after attacking woman in Whistler, B.C.

Black Bear Killed After Attack on Woman in Whistler

Conservation officers in British Columbia recently made the difficult decision to euthanize a black bear following an attack on a woman walking her dog in Whistler. The incident occurred in the Kadenwood neighbourhood around 8:30 p.m. PT on Monday, when the woman was knocked to the ground and bitten by the bear while walking her leashed dog.

The victim was promptly transported to the hospital by ambulance and fortunately sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Upon conducting a thorough search of the area, conservation officers were able to locate a black bear that matched the descriptions provided by witnesses.

Regrettably, due to the potential risk the bear posed to public safety, the decision was made to euthanize the animal. Conservation officers are currently conducting an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Earlier this spring, authorities had issued warnings to residents of British Columbia to remain vigilant as bears emerged from their winter hibernation.

Statistics and Conservation Efforts

According to data compiled by the B.C. Conservation Officer Service, a total of 303 black bears were euthanized last year, marking a decrease from the 603 bears euthanized in 2023. On average, between 500 and 600 bears are euthanized annually in B.C., with the highest recorded number reaching 632 in 2019.

Conservation officers emphasize that euthanizing bears is always considered a last resort, with efforts to rehabilitate or relocate the animals whenever possible. The decision to euthanize an animal is made only when it is deemed that the bear cannot be safely reintegrated into its natural habitat.