The B.C. Conservation Officer Service has launched an investigation into a series of videos posted on social media that appear to show two men illegally hand-feeding a grizzly bear in the remote northwestern region of the province. The videos, which surfaced over the Victoria Day long weekend in 2026, have prompted authorities to seek public assistance in identifying the individuals involved.
Details of the Incident
According to a statement from the conservation service, several concerned citizens reported the videos, which depict two men allegedly feeding a grizzly bear in the Smithers area. In one clip, a man is seen offering a carrot to the bear from inside a vehicle. Another video shows a man standing outside a vehicle trying to feed an apple to the bear, with a second grizzly bear visible in the background.
Conservation officers believe the footage was captured on Hudson Bay Mountain Road, located southwest of Smithers town centre. The service has emphasized that feeding dangerous wildlife is not only illegal but also poses significant risks to both humans and animals.
Risks and Legal Consequences
Conservation officer Cody Cyr warned that such actions could lead to serious injury or worse. “Feeding dangerous wildlife is not only illegal, but an extremely risky activity both for the safety of the person, as well as the bear,” Cyr stated. “These individuals could have been seriously hurt, or worse. Feeding bears is not helping them. Feeding bears creates a public safety risk by conditioning the animals to human food and presence.”
Under B.C. law, penalties for feeding dangerous wildlife can include fines of up to $100,000 and imprisonment. Officers are actively investigating and will take enforcement action as warranted.
Public Appeal for Information
Authorities do not currently believe the individuals in the videos reside in British Columbia. The conservation service is urging anyone with information to contact the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1-877-952-7277. The investigation remains ongoing as officers work to identify and locate the suspects.
