This week in British Columbia, wildlife officials were called to respond to not one, but two grizzly bear incidents.
In the first incident near Fort St. James on Monday, a grizzly sow protecting her cub attacked a hunter, biting his ankle before later retreating. The hunter managed to get help for his injury.
Just a few days later near Fort Steele, another hunter encountered a different sow with cubs. Unfortunately, this time the hunter suffered serious injuries and had to be airlifted to the hospital.
While the first attack was deemed defensive, with the mother bear protecting her young, authorities are still investigating the circumstances of Thursday’s encounter.
To prevent such incidents, the BC Conservation Officer Service urges outdoor enthusiasts to travel in groups, secure their food properly, carry bear spray, and make noise while in bear territory.
In case of a grizzly bear encounter, experts advise staying calm, speaking softly, backing away slowly, and using bear spray if the bear charges.