Mother bear put down after being fed by Chilliwack resident, conservation officers say

The Conservation Officer Service (COS) is investigating a Chilliwack resident who fed a mother bear and her cubs, prompting the bear's destruction. Hand-feeding wildlife leads to dangerous situations, as animals lose their natural fear of humans. The COS reiterated that feeding bears significantly endangers public safety. The mother bear was euthanized due to the direct consequences of human intervention. Meanwhile, the two cubs are safe at a rehabilitation center and are scheduled for relocation in the spring.

This incident underscores the critical need for community awareness regarding wildlife interactions. Human encroachment into bear habitats continues to complicate these situations. Local authorities aim to educate residents on the importance of not feeding wild animals to prevent similar occurrences.