The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) and the Village of Cumberland are urging residents to be extra vigilant following an incident where a black bear injured a hiker on Sunday. The BCCOS confirmed that two hikers with an off-leash dog were attacked by a family of black bears near the Bevan Wetlands. One of the hikers sustained injuries, was hospitalized, and has since been discharged. Conservation officers determined that the bear attack was defensive in nature and opted not to search for the bear, but they will be monitoring the area regularly.
The Village of Cumberland has taken to social media to caution visitors to remain alert for bears by looking out for indicators like fresh scat and tracks. Hikers are advised to travel in groups, keep their dogs on a leash, carry bear spray, and make noise while navigating through the wilderness. Any instances of aggressive bear behavior or encounters between humans and wildlife can be reported to the Conservation Officer Service’s 24-hour RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.