Three young grizzly bears were discovered close to where a hunter was mauled by a grizzly bear, resulting in the bear being killed near Cochrane. The cubs seem to be healthy and well-fed, likely having a nearby den based on their movements, as stated by a provincial spokesperson. Initially, it was reported that one bear was seen fleeing the scene, while the attacking grizzly, identified as a female, was shot by the victim’s hunting companion.
Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services, in consultation with biologists and wildlife specialists, decided not to intervene with the cubs and allow them to hibernate naturally. The statement did not mention the cubs’ age or if the attacking sow was their mother. The province mentioned that it is the time of year when the cubs would typically start hibernating, ensuring abundant food sources upon emerging in the spring.
Retired Alberta Fish and Wildlife officer John Clarke expressed that the survival chances of the cubs without knowing their age pose challenges. Grizzly bear cubs usually stay with their mother until they are around three years old. The assessment that the cubs can survive hibernation is positive, but questions remain about their readiness for winter survival.
Options for orphaned cubs, according to the province’s grizzly bear response guide, include retention at a zoo, no action, or euthanasia. The relocation of bears under one year old to the wild is not feasible. The Wildlife Act prohibits the rehabilitation and release of orphaned grizzly bears back into the wild, unlike black bears.
Concerned individuals may contact Fish and Wildlife regarding the presence of the grizzly bears in the area post-attack, with Clarke addressing unfounded concerns about the cubs developing aggressive behavior due to the incident. The exact location of the attack was not disclosed by the province, only specifying it occurred south of Cochrane. Signage warning of “dangerous grizzly bear” presence was erected approximately 40 kilometers west of Calgary after the incident.
The victim of the attack was airlifted by STARS air ambulance from the Springbank area to a hospital west of Calgary, where he is reported to be in stable condition.