Bear attack in Squamish Estuary prompts trail closure and warning
The Conservation Officer Service and District of Squamish are issuing a warning following a surprise encounter in the Squamish Estuary between a resident with a leashed dog and a sow with two cubs. The incident occurred on the evening of Friday, October 16.
The resident was swiped by the sow and received a superficial scratch which did not require medical attention. The attack is described as defensive and the Conservation Officer Service is monitoring the situation.
Bear traps have been set in an effort to relocate the family of three. The Squamish Estuary trail network is closed until further notice and the public is asked to please respect all signage and barricades.
Please continue to report wildlife sightings and encounters to the Conservation Officer Service 24/7 hotline: 1.877.952.7277.
October 17, 2020
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Comments
Michael Nov 29, 2020, 9:55 AM (4 years ago)
I find it absolutely frustrating that the trail I’ve been walking 3 to 5 days a week minimum since 1991 are closed. 30 Years!!! No problem! I’ve walked past, and encountered all sorts of wildlife, especially black bears and hav never had a problem. This is a serious hardship for me. The town has exploded in population and everyone has less elbow room. Is someone actually going to fine me for using the space I pay thousands a year for in taxes? I’m FREAKING Out! Who is this “person”?, who screwed it up for everyone. Thankyou and hav a nice day. This is as stupid as. This ain’t the city. People are really stupid.
Michael Nov 29, 2020, 9:54 AM (4 years ago)
I find it absolutely frustrating that the trail I’ve been walking 3 to 5 days a week minimum since 1991 are closed. 30 Years!!! No problem! I’ve walked past, and encountered all sorts of wildlife, especially black bears and hav never had a problem. This is a serious hardship for me. The town has exploded in population and everyone has less elbow room. Is someone actually going to fine me for using the space I pay thousands a year for in taxes? I’m FREAKING Out! Who is this “person”?, who screwed it up for everyone. Thankyou and hav a nice day. This is as stupid as. This ain’t the city. People are really stupid.
Akenyon Nov 14, 2020, 5:10 PM (4 years ago)
Still seeing people taking the trails into the estuary.....so disappointing ???? joggers...dog walkers...
M. Van Oostdam Oct 19, 2020, 9:00 AM (4 years ago)
Hello,
Why is it that we think it is ok to relocate a family of bears that have been living in the estuary? These are not bears feeding on garbage or attacking people without provocation.
Close the estuary for a few months of the year to protect the bears as they raise young and feed in preparation for winter.
This idea that trapping bears and relocating them is a poor approach to human-wildlife interactions.
If someone can get in touch that would be great.
DOS Communications Oct 20, 2020, 5:01 PM (4 years ago)
Thank you for your comments. A further update has been posted on October 20 and the Conservation Officer Service has confirmed that the estuary trail network is being closed to the public until the bears hibernate.
https://squamish.ca/yourgovernment/news/bear-update-squamish-estuary-trail-network-is-closed-until-further-notice/
Jon Oct 19, 2020, 9:19 PM (4 years ago)
I completely agree. Close the area and wait for the bears to leave on their own terms. Trapping them in this case makes no sense.
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