The British Columbia Conservation Officer Service has launched an investigation into a series of videos that appear to show men hand-feeding a grizzly bear in the province. The videos, which surfaced online, have prompted concerns about the safety of both the public and the bear.
Details of the Incident
The investigation was confirmed on May 20, 2026, by the B.C. Conservation Officer Service. The agency shared two images related to the case, urging the public to come forward with any information. The videos depict individuals approaching a grizzly bear and offering food by hand, a dangerous practice that can lead to habituation and increased risk of human-wildlife conflict.
Why Hand-Feeding Is Dangerous
Wildlife experts emphasize that feeding bears, especially by hand, can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans. This behavior may lead to bears becoming aggressive or reliant on human food, often resulting in the need to euthanize the animal. The Conservation Officer Service is treating the matter seriously and is working to identify those involved.
Public Response and Safety Reminders
Officials remind the public that feeding dangerous wildlife is illegal in British Columbia under the Wildlife Act. They encourage anyone who encounters a bear to maintain a safe distance and report the sighting to authorities. The investigation remains ongoing, and no charges have been filed at this time.
