Why no one in B.C. knows exactly how many black bears there are

Black bears are a common subject of news stories, especially during this time of year when interactions with humans and urban areas increase. However, the actual population of black bears in British Columbia remains unclear, leading to concerns from wildlife advocates who believe better data is needed to understand and protect the species.

Registered professional biologist Helen Davis of Artemis Wildlife Consultants highlights the need for more accurate population estimates, stating that the current data is outdated and unreliable. While government materials from 2001 suggest there are between 120,000 and 160,000 black bears in the province, there is a lack of concrete evidence to support these numbers.

Biologists like Davis and First Nations groups are advocating for the protection of bear dens in old-growth forests, emphasizing the ecological and cultural importance of the species. They point to the role of black bears in distributing salmon carcasses as fertilizer for ancient trees, underscoring the interconnectedness of wildlife and the landscape.

Despite the lack of precise population figures, provincial statistics show that hundreds of black bears are destroyed each year due to conflicts with humans, with over 8,000 bears killed in a 14-year period. In addition, the annual black bear hunt results in an average of 5,000 more bears being harvested.

While efforts to protect grizzly bears have been a focus in the past, provincial scientists are working to ensure the health of black bear populations. Former large carnivore scientist Tony Hamilton suggests that setting specific objectives for the species may be more effective than striving for a single population estimate. This approach could help address known challenges such as orphaned bears, human-bear conflicts, and habitat destruction.

Current large carnivore specialist Garth Mowat conducted a study in Central Vancouver Island, revealing high black bear densities in the region. He emphasizes the importance of sustainable hunting practices and minimizing conflicts to protect the species.

Overall, there is a consensus that more accurate data and targeted conservation efforts are needed to safeguard black bears in British Columbia. Residents are encouraged to secure their garbage and be mindful of their interactions with wildlife to prevent unnecessary harm to these iconic animals.