The Editor,
Re. “Bear shot, five fined in SW Coq.” (The Tri-City News, Aug. 23).
It is extremely unfortunate that public education, fines and wildlife conservation efforts are not working to save the lives of our local wildlife.
Shooting a living being simply for trying to feed itself is an act of cruelty. Dealing with an animal habituated to garbage or one that displays “no fear of humans” by lethal means should be an absolute last resort. It currently is not.
What else can our cities do? Direct more funds to public education and engage with local wildlife groups and experts to assist in educating residence to coexist with wildlife. Generate a survey to find out why people are not complying with managing bear attractants and target those issues.
Hire more conservation and bylaw officers to deal effectively with these issues and devise a cohesive plan to tag and relocate these animals. Create a bylaw to maintain wildlife corridors in new developments.
Who should pay for this? Levy a wildlife and conservation fee for developers that clearcut land; continue to generate income from fines for non-compliance; add a levy to yearly property taxes.
I also question why people are encouraged to report bear sightings. Expect to see wildlife in our area. When you spot a bear, consider it a gift. Let it be and let it move on its merry way.
Tracy Riddell, Port Moody
