We were saddened to hear about the woman injured by a bear in Whistler and wish her a full and speedy recovery. Encounters like this are frightening, and our hearts go out to her.
It’s also a heartbreaking loss for the community. A mother black bear was killed, and her three orphaned cubs remain missing, despite volunteers searching for more than a week. Their chances of survival are now very slim, and many are mourning their loss.
As bears emerge from hibernation, they seek food and space, often bringing them into closer contact with people. Black bears are not inherently dangerous—but like any mother, a bear will react defensively if startled, especially while protecting her young.
Whistler must invest in improved signage, public education, and enforcement. Residents and visitors alike need clear, consistent messaging: keep dogs leashed, stay alert, avoid wearing headphones, and secure garbage and other attractants—especially in spring.
These small, practical steps can help prevent suffering on all sides. Bears shouldn’t die simply for being wild, and people shouldn’t be harmed because we failed to prepare.
Let’s learn from this and commit to protecting both people and wildlife. Read more at TheFurBearers.com.
Lesley Fox // executive director, The Fur-Bearers
