The search for bear cubs concluded after a black bear attack in Whistler’s Kadenwood neighbourhood on April 28th, and the Conservation Officer Service (COS) confirmed this.
The incident occurred when a woman walking her leashed dog was knocked to the ground and bitten by a black bear. In response to the attack, conservation officers euthanized the bear. According to the COS, an examination of the deceased bear revealed a female (sow) showing signs of lactation, raising the possibility that she had cubs nearby.
Following the attack, COS officers remained on site for several hours. Despite their presence and initial reports from the public the following day, no cubs were observed in the area. A live trap and trail cameras were strategically placed in the vicinity to aid in the search.
Conservation officers continued actively searching the Kadenwood area for any sign of the cubs in the days following the attack. However, these efforts proved unsuccessful. After six days, the COS removed the traps on May 4. This decision was based on the extended period that had passed without any sign of the cubs, coupled with the presence of other bears in the area.
The Conservation Officer Service has concluded its search efforts for the potential bear cubs.